Push for Linguistic and Religious Recognition in India

AITC member Samirul Islam calls on the central government to include Kurmali, Rajbanshi, and Kamtapuri languages in the Constitution's Eighth Schedule and recognize Sarna and Shari religions practiced by tribal communities in India. He highlights existing efforts by the West Bengal government to support these languages and religions.

In an impassioned plea, AITC member Samirul Islam on Thursday urged the Indian central government to officially recognize the Kurmali, Rajbanshi, and Kamtapuri languages by adding them to the Constitution's Eighth Schedule. He also called for the acknowledgment of the Sarna and Shari religions, which are primarily practiced by tribal communities.

Islam made these remarks during Zero Hour in the Rajya Sabha, emphasizing that the Kurmali language is predominantly spoken by the Kurmi community in Jangalmahal districts, West Bengal, and extends to regions in Assam, Jharkhand, and Odisha. He credited Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for previously approving the language in the Legislative Assembly and establishing related development boards.

Addressing another critical issue, Islam highlighted the long-standing practice of Sarna and Shari religions among tribal communities such as the Santhal, Munda, and Oraon in West Bengal. Despite repeated communications from the state government, he lamented that the central government has yet to recognize these faiths, stressing the constitutional right to religious freedom.

(With inputs from agencies.)