Shillong, July 26: The Hills State People’s Democratic Party (HSPDP) has once again pressed for the recognition of Khasi as an official language of Meghalaya, urging the state government to act decisively on the long-standing demand.

Following a meeting with Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, HSPDP President K.P. Pangniang said on Friday that the party had submitted a fresh memorandum seeking the adoption of Khasi as one of the state’s official languages.

“This is not just a political stand—it’s a core commitment of our party manifesto,” Pangniang stated. “While we appreciate the government’s earlier move to pass a resolution for the inclusion of Khasi and Garo in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution, we believe the state must first formally recognise Khasi within its administrative framework.”

He emphasised that official recognition would have practical benefits for Khasi-speaking citizens, particularly students appearing for competitive exams where mother tongue representation can make a difference.

“It’s time for our government to acknowledge the language that is intrinsic to the cultural identity of the state,” he said.

Although English remains the only official language of Meghalaya, Pangniang argued that it does not reflect the linguistic reality of the state, where Khasi and Garo are widely spoken and hold deep historical significance.

He added that the Chief Minister had responded positively to the demand and acknowledged its urgency. “The Hon’ble Chief Minister assured us that the government will examine the matter seriously and explore viable steps to address it.”

On the issue of central recognition, Pangniang reiterated that the state government must persist in following up with the Centre to ensure Khasi and Garo find a place in the Eighth Schedule. “We cannot afford to let this issue fade away—it is linked to the aspirations and identity of our people,” he said.

It may be noted that in 2018, the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly unanimously passed a resolution urging the Centre to include both Khasi and Garo in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution. However, progress on the matter has remained sluggish.

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