Source: Hueiyen News Service
Imphal, May 09 2009:
MEELAL and the Manipuri Language and Literature Development Forum (MALLIDEF), Manipur University have decided to launch intense agitation for the inclusion of Manipuri language as a compulsory subject from Class IX-XII in schools and higher secondary schools of Manipur.
The decision was reached after a minute discussion over the diminishing numbers of students opting Manipuri subject in colleges and Manipur University, a joint press statement issued by secretary of MALLIDEF, Khoisnam Inaobi and secretary of MEELAL Yanglem Biren stated.
The press release categorically stated that no Manipuri students will be allowed to opt for Additional English/Alternative English in lieu of Manipuri in schools and higher secondary schools of the state from the next academic session.
The statement charged that in a ploy to stamp out the Manipuri subject, which deserves to be made a compulsory MIL subject, Additional and Alternative English have been introduced in schools and secondary schools under the Board of Secondary Education, Manipur and Council of Higher Secondary Education, Manipur while asserting that the subject deserves to be opted by students (Meitei and Meitei-Pangal) who use the language as their mother tongue.
It pointed out that making the subject compulsory till Class VIII and making it optional from Class IX is a big mistake.
It asks why Manipuri, one of the Major Indian Languages and the lingua franca of the land is made to be offered by only few students.
The joint statement further asserts that Manipuri subject can never, in any way, be made the victim of English.
It added that restricting students to speak Manipuri in schools and encouraging the use of English is not a positive sign while saying that MEELAL and MALLIDEF will observe in this matter.
It also questions why the language should not be studied when it has also been included in the subject of UPSC competitive examinations.
It then appeals the BSEM, COHSEM, and all civil society organisations to extend support over the move to make Manipuri a compulsory subject in higher secondary schools.