CM moots crash course in local languages for MLAs

Shillong, Feb 26:: Chief Minister Conrad Sangma has suggested the need for introducing a crash course in local languages for the MLAs in the state .

During the question hour, the chief minister said that let the Khasi MLAs learn Garos and vice versa .

He was replying to a question on local language proficiency raised by Rajabala MLA Dr  Mizanur Kazi ( TMC)

The chief minister said, “It would be nice if we have some classes for MLAs — a crash course for 10 days or 15 days — where members from Garo Hills can learn Khasi and those from Khasi-Jaintia can learn Garo. This would send a good message…. that we are leading from the front.”

Kazi brought to the notice of the chief minister the difficulties faced by the non-Garo, non- Khasi job applicants as they have to write examinations in local languages for District Selection Committee (DSC) posts.

Kazi said the policy could disadvantage unemployed youth in the plains of Garo Hills where local language infrastructure remains weak, and urged the government to provide training facilities and sufficient preparation time.

The chief minister clarified that the move was not aimed at exclusion.

“I assure all members this is being done from the objective that whoever goes for government jobs must be able to speak the local language. It is not a tough subject — just basic communication,” he said.

Sangma stressed that proficiency, not literary knowledge, would be required.

“If they cannot speak Garo and Khasi, it will affect service delivery since they will be dealing with the local population. This is not meant to deprive anybody, but to ensure basic communication with the people we serve.”

He said many residents in plains already speak Garo. “I have lots of friends in Selsella and the plains, and all of them speak Garo. So, there is no problem,” he said.

The chief minister also pointed to recent cabinet decisions mandating Khasi and Garo in primary schools, with textbooks already being developed.

“We are very proud of our mother tongue. With that objective we have come up with a policy… but people should not be worried.

Dr Kazi, however, pointed out that during the examination, the applicants are compelled to write grammar and composition and it is not a simple issue of mere language proficiency.

The chief minister acknowledged the concern and replied, “The concern about grammar and all — that I can examine — but our intention is to see that basic knowledge of the language is there.