Rajbanshi Kamtapuri and Kurmali Languages Demand Constitutional Recognition

Rajbanshi Kamtapuri and Kurmali Languages: Language is more than a medium of communication—it is a vessel of identity, culture, and heritage. In India, the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution recognizes 22 languages, granting them official status and ensuring their promotion. Recently, Samirul Islam, a Trinamool Congress MP, urged the Union government to include Rajbanshi‑Kamtapuri and Kurmali in this list. His demand reflects the aspirations of millions of speakers across Bengal, Assam, Jharkhand, Odisha, and Bihar, and highlights the ongoing struggle for linguistic justice in India.

Rajbanshi Kamtapuri and Kurmali Languages: The Parliamentary Demand

Speaking during Question Hour in the Rajya Sabha, Islam emphasized:

• Rajbanshi‑Kamtapuri is spoken across North Bengal, Assam, Meghalaya, and Bihar.
• Kurmali is widely spoken in Jangalmahal (West Bengal), Jharkhand, Odisha, and Assam.
• Both languages received official recognition in 2018 from the Bengal Assembly.
• Cultural academies and development boards were established to preserve them.

For official references:

• Parliament of India
• Ministry of Culture – Government of India

Historical Context of Rajbanshi‑Kamtapuri

The Rajbanshi community has a rich history in North Bengal:

• The language evolved from Indo‑Aryan roots, with influences from Assamese and Bengali.
• It is spoken by both Hindu and Muslim Rajbanshis, including the Nashya Sheikh community (around 60 lakh people).
• Leaders like Panchanan Barma championed Rajbanshi identity in the 20th century.

Government references:

• National Archives of India
• Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav – Language Heritage

Historical Context of Kurmali

Kurmali is the language of the Kurmi community, spread across eastern India:

• It belongs to the Indo‑Aryan family, with dialectal variations across states.
• It is used in folk songs, oral traditions, and community rituals.
• Recognition in 2018 by the Bengal Assembly boosted its visibility.

Government references:

• Indian Council of Historical Research
• Ministry of Education – Language Studies

Political Context

The demand for inclusion has electoral implications:

• In North Bengal, Rajbanshi votes are crucial. The BJP gained ground in 2019 and 2024 Lok Sabha polls.
• Mamata Banerjee’s government has promoted language academies to regain support.
• The Greater Cooch Behar People’s Association has demanded political representation tied to linguistic recognition.

Human Cost of Non‑Recognition

Without constitutional recognition:

• Speakers feel marginalized and excluded from mainstream education.
• Students lack textbooks and formal instruction in their mother tongue.
• Communities fear cultural erosion and loss of identity.

Constitutional and Legal Framework

The Eighth Schedule currently includes 22 languages. Adding new ones requires parliamentary approval. Recognition ensures:

• Use in competitive exams.
• Promotion in schools and universities.
• Preservation through government funding.

Relevant government link:

• Constitution of India – Eighth Schedule

Broader Implications for Democracy

The demand underscores key issues:

• Linguistic diversity is central to India’s identity.
• Federalism requires respecting regional aspirations.
• Cultural justice strengthens democracy by empowering marginalized groups.

Conclusion

The call for constitutional recognition of Rajbanshi‑Kamtapuri and Kurmali is more than a linguistic demand—it is a struggle for dignity, identity, and inclusion. Recognizing these languages would honor India’s pluralism and ensure that millions of speakers feel represented in the nation’s constitutional framework.

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