Manipuri Language Day-2026 Observed across Imphal; demand for Classical status grows louder
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, August 20 2026:
The 35th Manipuri Language Day was observed across Imphal on Thursday with literary bodies, student organisations and civil society groups hosting separate functions.
The common refrain at all venues was the need to grant Classical Language status to Manipuri language and for greater Government funding to ensure its growth.
WAMA stresses research and inclusion
Wakhallon Mannaba Apunba Kangleipak (WAMA) marked the day at GP Women's College.
WAMA president Moirangthem Naokhamba Meetei called for united efforts to develop both language and script, urging scholars to work beyond Community and religious lines.
Pandam Paoche chief editor Meisnam Shivadutta Luwang said the delay in Classical status is due to the State Government not fulfilling the criteria set by the Centre.
He recalled that former Rajya Sabha MP Leishemba Sanajaoba had raised the demand in Parliament.
Luwang pointed out that while Assamese has now been accorded Classical status, Manipuri is still waiting.
He also acknowledged L Radhakanta, Director of Language Planning and Implementation, for working on a draft proposal for submission to the Centre.
As part of the event, WAMA felicitated five hill students pursuing Manipuri as a subject - Yuileila Teresa Keishing, Makunga Notang Maring, Maringmei Gairillu, Soringla Kashung and Mangte Rimthang Kom - with the "Ema Lol-gi Athoiba Mana" to encourage wider use of the language among hill communities.
Other dignitaries present included Dr Hamom Nabachandra, Namoijam Tomba, Dr Waikhom Romesh, Kshetrimayum Tama, Brijkeshor Laishram, Kshetrimayum Arun Meetei and Thiyam Master Singh.
MEELAL, WRITPLAT call for policy and financial support
At its head office, Meetei Erol Eyek Loinasillol Apunba Lup, Kangleipak (MEELAL) observed the day with secretary general Paonam Thakaba Meetei noting that 35 years after inclusion in the 8th Schedule, Manipuri has not grown as expected due to lack of substantial funding from both the Centre and State.
Chief guest Langoljam Nongmailembi Leima said languages inducted along with Manipuri in 1992 have progressed further, and urged the Government to allocate special funds.
Gaisinglung Pamei, Nongthombam Ibemcha and other members attended.
Writers' Platform, Manipur (WRITPLAT) at Manipur Press Club echoed similar concerns.
WRITPLAT general secretary Dr KB Ingaremba said inclusion in the 8th Schedule alone is not a reason to celebrate.
He demanded Classical status and inclusion of Meetei Mayek on Indian currency notes.
Chief guest Dr N Hemantakumar, Director of Health Services, said Manipuri acts as a link language in the State and needs collective promotion.
WRITPLAT advisor Sh Meghachandra and president Haobam Chitra also spoke, with retired Principal K Gangarani moderating a poetry session.
Students and academics flag declining usage
The All Manipur Students' Union (AMSU) at TG Higher Secondary School, led by president Lukram Malangba.
stressed that the community must take the lead in promoting the script.
He expressed concern over the youth shifting to English and Hindi, calling it unfortunate for a State with its own script and literary tradition.
Speakers included Dr Saratchandra Longjomba, Dr Haobijam Chalamba Meitei and Dr Sapam Bijenti Devi.
At Manipur College, Principal Prof Aribam Devidas Sharma said globalisation is eroding use of the mother tongue.
"Parents write books in Manipuri but children do not read them.
If the language is not developed, our identity, tradition and culture will be lost", he said.
The programme was also attended by former Manipuri Language Demand CoCoordinating Committee chairman Prof MS Ningombam and Manipur College Alumni Association president and former Manipur Human Rights Commission member Ng Nongyai.
Left organisations recall struggle for 8th Schedule
All India Students' Federation, All India Youth Federation, All Manipur Nupi Marup and Manipur Loumi Lup jointly observed the day at Irabot Bhavan.
Leaders recalled the role of CPI MPs from 1952 to 1992 in securing 8th Schedule status.
Resolutions were passed demanding Classical Language status and stronger Government intervention.
Speakers across all functions agreed that without policy support, funding, and active use in education and administration, Manipuri's rich heritage will remain under threat.
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