Rajbanshi-Kamtapuri language inclusion demand reaches Centre

The memorandum emphasises the importance of the Rajbanshi-Kamtapuri community in maintaining its unique cultural and linguistic identity across India, Bangladesh, Nepal, and Bhutan.

SNS, SILIGURI, 20 FEBRUARY 2025 : In a significant move, Leader of Opposition in the West Bengal Legislative Assembly Suvendu Adhikari, along with 24 MLAs from North Bengal, today submitted a joint memorandum to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, demanding the inclusion of the Rajbanshi-Kamtapuri language in the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution. The memorandum highlights the long-standing demand of the Rajbanshi-Kamtapuri community, which has preserved its distinct cultural and linguistic identity across India, Bangladesh, Nepal, and Bhutan.

The West Bengal government has already recognised Rajbanshi-Kamtapuri as an official language, and Assam has established the Kamatapur Autonomous Council for the community. The language's global recognition is evident through its inclusion in Google's linguistic database and academic studies at institutions like Tribhuvan University in Nepal. Key texts like the Ramayana and Gita have been translated into Rajbanshi-Kamtapuri, and the community maintains its own 'Panchang.'

Spoken by an estimated three crore people, the Rajbanshi-Kamtapuri language holds a prominent place in India's indigenous heritage. The majority of its speakers reside in West Bengal, Assam, Bihar, and Meghalaya. The community is unique as the only transnational group in Asia to maintain its ethnic culture and language across four countries. The language boasts a rich literary tradition, with Sahitya Akademi-recognised writers like Dr. Girija Shankar Roy and Padma Shri awardees such as Dr. Dharma Narayan Barma and Nagendra Nath Roy. Notable figures like Pratima Barua and Gita Roy Barman have also been honoured for their contributions to 'Bhawaiya' music, while Mangalakanti Roy gained recognition for his work with the ethnic instrument 'Sarinda.'

The Rajbanshi-Kamtapuri community has played a pivotal role in shaping modern India. Late Upendra Nath Barman, a former MP and Constituent Assembly member, worked closely with Dr. BR Ambedkar in drafting the Indian Constitution. Other luminaries like Thakur Panchanan Barma and Maharaja Nripendra Narayan contributed significantly to social and political reforms. The community has also produced influential figures such as Princess Gayatri Devi and former Assam Chief Minister Sarat Chandra Sinha. Recently, Swapna Barman, the "golden girl" of the community, brought pride by winning a gold medal in heptathlon at the Asian Games and receiving the Arjuna Award.

Given its historical, cultural, and linguistic significance, the inclusion of Rajbanshi-Kamtapuri in the Eighth Schedule is a crucial step toward preserving and promoting the language for future generations. The demand reflects the community's aspirations for recognition and equality in India's diverse linguistic landscape.