In a significant
move towards inclusivity and cultural recognition, Nepal has taken steps to
acknowledge the linguistic diversity within its borders by officially
recognizing the Nepalbhasa (Newar Language) and Tamang languages as state
languages alongside Nepali at the state level of the Bagmati Province.
On 6 May 2024, a
collaborative effort between the Bagmati Province Government, Ministry of
Culture, Tourism and Cooperatives, Nepal Tamang Ghedung, Federal Working
Committee, and Newa Dey Daboo, Central Committee marked the official launch of
the Provincial Government Official Language Act, 2080 BS, and Language Day
program. The event, graced by Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal as the chief
guest, featured various activities, including a rally held at Basantapur, the
Durbar Square of Kathmandu.
In a significant
announcement during the ceremony, the Bagmati Province Government declared May
6th as a public holiday across Bagmati Province. Furthermore, as part of the
initiative, Tamang and Nepal Bhasa (Newari) languages will now be featured
alongside Nepali language on signboards across all ministries of the province,
symbolizing a commitment to linguistic diversity and inclusion.
Nepalbhasa (Newar
language), spoken predominantly by the Newar community in the Kathmandu Valley
and surrounding areas, holds historical and cultural significance in Nepal.
With a rich literary tradition and deep roots in the country's heritage, the
recognition of Newar as a state language reflects a commitment to preserving
and promoting Nepal's diverse linguistic heritage.
Similarly, the
Tamang language, spoken by the Tamang ethnic group primarily in the hills of
central and eastern Nepal, represents another facet of the country's linguistic
tapestry. The recognition of Tamang as a state language acknowledges the
cultural identity and linguistic rights of the Tamang community, contributing
to their sense of belonging and empowerment within Nepali society.
The official
recognition of Newar and Tamang languages as state languages is a positive step
towards linguistic equality and social inclusion in Nepal. It affirms the
constitutional rights of linguistic minorities and underscores the importance
of preserving and celebrating the country's linguistic diversity.
By embracing
linguistic diversity and promoting multilingualism, Nepal reinforces its
commitment to fostering a more inclusive and culturally vibrant society. The
recognition of Newar and Tamang languages as state languages not only enhances
linguistic rights but also strengthens the fabric of national unity and
identity, fostering a stronger sense of belonging among all communities in
Nepal.
In the past, a
fundamental principle of royal feudal rule prevailed - the promotion of one
language and one identity. The rich social, cultural, and linguistic diversity
that existed within the country was viewed as a burden by the rulers, who saw
it as a barrier to national unity. Consequently, the rulers enforced social,
cultural, and linguistic homogeneity as the cornerstone of national unity,
often resorting to coercive measures to suppress any form of social
incorporation that deviated from this norm.
Efforts made by
communities or language speakers to preserve their own language, literature,
and script were often viewed with suspicion by the ruling elite, who
interpreted such endeavors as disruptive to ethnic, communal, and social
harmony. Those advocating for the renaissance of their mother tongue,
literature, and culture were frequently branded as rebels or unwanted elements
by the feudal powers.
Numerous
instances illustrate the oppressive measures taken by rulers to quash
linguistic diversity. King Ran Bahadur Shah, for instance, issued a royal
decree forbidding the use of the Kirat community's mother tongue in legal
proceedings in eastern Nepal. Similarly, Prime Minister Rana Chandra Shamsher
nullified all non-special language documents through a decree on July 29, 1978.
In the valley, individuals were penalized for writing in their mother tongue,
using Buddhist sources to compose Newar literature. Esteemed Newar poets and
scholars such as Siddhicharan Shrestha, Chittadhar Hridaya, and Kedarman
Byathit faced lifelong imprisonment for their literary creations in their
native language.
Additionally, a
new education system diverted children from mother tongue education, while
Panchayati government policies restricted the use of non-special languages in
mass media communication. The government further curtailed commercial
advertising and propaganda in mother tongues, marginalizing creative campaigns
and initiatives that favored native languages and often branding them as
anti-establishment. Those involved in such endeavors were frequently
blacklisted by the police-administration.
These historical
examples underscore the challenges endured by linguistic minorities in Nepal
and emphasize the ongoing necessity of efforts to promote linguistic diversity,
safeguard cultural heritage, and uphold the rights of all language communities.
Struggle
Continue for Education in the Mother Tongue:
The United
Nations General Assembly designated 2019 as the International Year of
Indigenous Languages to spotlight the importance of linguistic diversity in
daily life, particularly in early education, and to advocate for the protection
and promotion of indigenous languages. Despite global recognition of the
benefits of mother tongue education, many indigenous groups, including those in
Nepal, face ongoing struggles to ensure linguistic-inclusive education.
In Nepal, the
term "Adivasi Janajati" encompasses various indigenous nationalities,
representing a multitude of ethnic, caste, and linguistic groups. The country
boasts 125 ethnic groups and 109 languages, yet the implementation of mother
tongue education remains a challenge. The legacy of linguistic suppression and
neglect during the monarchy and the Maoist insurgency underscores the
significance of the 2015 Constitution, which mandates basic education in
children's first language.
Khas-Parbate
language, currently called Nepali, remains dominant in classroom instruction,
underscoring the need for greater utilization of local languages. Studies link
mother tongue education to increased student engagement, emphasizing its
potential to enhance learning outcomes. Despite the complexities of education
policy implementation, understanding local perspectives is crucial for building
a more inclusive education system that respects linguistic diversity in Nepal.
(vidhukayastha@gmail.com)
