MEELAL warns of agitation in absence of measures to uplift Meetei language
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, February 21 2026: Meetei Erol Eyek Loinasillol Apunba Lup (MEELAL) has threatened to launch a series of protests if the Manipur Language Directorate does not take up necessary steps for the upliftment and promotion of Meetei/Manipuri language.

MEELAL general secretary Paonam Thakaba made the statement at a press conference held in connection with the 26th International Mother Language Day at the organisation's office in Imphal.

Speaking to the media, he said that a Lexicon Committee was constituted under the Language Directorate to detect "blended words" in school textbooks and work for the development of Manipuri language.

However, the Committee "disappeared" for a period of time and was recently reconstituted in February of 2025 .

Though a year has passed since its reformation, the MEELAL general secretary claimed that the Committee has failed to deliver on its obligations and duties.

If the concerned Director fails to convene a joint meeting to discuss the matter, MEELAL is prepared to initiate an agitation, he maintained.

When contacted, the Directorate reportedly explained that the Committee was unable to "perform their duties" due to a lack of funds.

At this, he questioned if the shortage of funds should be resolved in consultation with the relevant Government authorities or MEELAL.

Referring to the reported recruitment of primary teachers by the Government, he said that Manipuri teachers should also be appointed.

Further, he shared that a meeting has been scheduled with All Manipur Working Journalists' Union (AMWJU) and Editors Guild Manipur this week to discuss increasing the prominence and use of the Meetei Mayek script in daily Manipuri language newspapers.

Additional measures will be undertaken to ensure inclusion of Meetei Mayek in signboards, hoardings, banners and the number plates of vehicles within this week, he maintained.

Other dignitaries present at the press briefing include WASEDEV president RK Tharaksana, MEELAL president Waikhom Gojen, advisor Sadokpam Tomba Mangang among others.

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