Shillong, Feb 26: Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Thursday proposed a crash course in local languages for legislators, suggesting that MLAs from Garo Hills learn Khasi and those from Khasi-Jaintia Hills learn Garo to set an example for citizens amid the government’s push for language proficiency in public employment.
Replying in the Assembly, Sangma 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.”
His remarks came in response to TMC legislator Dr Mizanur Kazi, who raised concerns about the government’s recent decision to mandate Khasi and Garo proficiency for District Selection Committee (DSC) posts.
Kazi said the policy could disadvantage unemployed youth in the plain belt areas 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 added that many residents in plain belt areas 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.
Sangma 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, pressed the matter further, saying infrastructure for language training has not yet been developed and youth need time to adapt. “Till infrastructure is provided, they risk being deprived of government jobs,” he said.
Acknowledging the concern, Sangma 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. Giving space to that does not arise.”
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