Lepcha Language Recognition: The Lepcha language, spoken across Sikkim, Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Nepal, and Bhutan, is one of the oldest and most culturally significant tongues of the Himalayan region. Yet, it remains endangered, as classified by UNESCO. Recently, Shanta Chhetri, former Rajya Sabha MP and current president of the Trinamool Congress’s Darjeeling and Kalimpong district units, wrote to Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee urging recognition of Lepcha and its inclusion in Bengal’s educational framework.
Her plea highlights the urgent need to preserve linguistic diversity, protect minority identities, and ensure cultural dignity. This essay expands on the incident, situating it within the broader context of language politics in India, the socio‑cultural realities of the Lepcha community, and the constitutional framework for linguistic recognition.
1. Shanta Chhetri’s Plea
- Chhetri emphasized Lepcha’s transboundary importance, spoken not only in Bengal and Sikkim but also in Nepal and Bhutan.
- She recalled her private member’s bill in 2023 seeking Lepcha’s inclusion in the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution, which lapsed due to adjournment.
- She urged Mamata Banerjee to recommend Lepcha’s inclusion to the central government and introduce it in school and university curricula.
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2. Historical Context of Lepcha Language
- Lepcha is considered the original language of Sikkim, with deep roots in oral traditions, folklore, and indigenous knowledge.
- It has its own script, developed centuries ago, and is tied to the community’s spiritual worldview.
- Despite its heritage, Lepcha has faced marginalization due to dominance of Nepali and Hindi in the region.
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3. UNESCO’s Endangered Classification
- UNESCO has classified Lepcha as an endangered language, warning of its fragile existence.
- Endangerment occurs when younger generations shift to dominant languages for education and employment.
- Preservation requires policy intervention, community mobilization, and institutional support.
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4. Political Dimensions in Bengal
- Bengal has a history of recognizing minority languages, such as Nepali in 1992.
- Mamata Banerjee established a Lepcha Development Board in 2012, followed by boards for 15 other communities.
- Recognition of Lepcha would strengthen TMC’s ties with hill communities and counter political rivals.
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5. Human Cost of Language Marginalization
- Loss of language means loss of identity, heritage, and cultural dignity.
- Children grow up disconnected from ancestral knowledge.
- Communities face psychological alienation when their language is excluded from official recognition.
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6. Constitutional and Legal Framework
- Article 29 of the Constitution protects cultural and linguistic rights of minorities.
- The Eighth Schedule currently recognizes 22 languages.
- Inclusion of Lepcha would provide access to government jobs, education, and cultural funding.
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7. Broader Implications for Democracy
- Recognition of Lepcha is not just symbolic—it is about cultural survival and self‑respect.
- It strengthens India’s democratic ethos of inclusivity.
- It ensures that development does not erase indigenous voices.
Global Comparisons
Other countries have faced similar challenges:
- In New Zealand, Māori language revival programs have transformed education.
- In Canada, indigenous languages are protected under federal law.
- India can learn from these models to safeguard Lepcha.
Lepcha Language Recognition: Conclusion
The plea for Lepcha language recognition is more than a political demand—it is a call for cultural justice and survival. By including Lepcha in the Eighth Schedule and integrating it into education, Bengal can set a precedent for protecting endangered languages. Recognition would honor the Lepcha community’s heritage, strengthen democratic inclusivity, and preserve India’s linguistic diversity for future generations.
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