Meghalaya Cabinet Declares Khasi and Garo as Official Languages

In a landmark decision, the Meghalaya Cabinet has officially recognized Khasi and Garo as the state's official languages, alongside English. This move aims to enhance opportunities for the youth and promote these languages in government communications and education. Chief Minister Conrad Sangma highlighted the importance of this decision, which also seeks to pressure the Central Government for their inclusion in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution. Amendments to existing laws will facilitate this transition, allowing for greater use of Khasi and Garo in legislative sessions and examinations. The recognition is expected to send a strong message to Parliament regarding the significance of these languages.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 17, 2026, 09:10 IST

Historic Decision by Meghalaya Cabinet

Meghalaya Cabinet

SHILLONG, April 17: In a significant move, the Meghalaya Cabinet has officially recognized Khasi and Garo as the state's official languages. This decision was made during a meeting on Thursday.

Chief Minister Conrad Sangma announced that the Cabinet has enacted the Meghalaya Official Languages Ordinance 2026, which replaces the previous State Language Act of 2005.

Describing the decision as historic, Sangma emphasized that it would create new opportunities for the youth and enhance the prominence of both languages. Alongside English, Khasi and Garo will now be utilized in all governmental communications and within the State legislature.

To facilitate this transition, the Chief Minister mentioned that the government plans to amend existing laws, starting with the Meghalaya State Legislature (Continuance of the English Language) Act of 1980. This amendment will allow legislators to converse and debate in Khasi and Garo during Assembly sessions.

Currently, the law restricts MLAs to speaking only in English, which has occasionally led to disputes. In some instances, legislators have resorted to using Khasi and Garo as a form of protest.

With the ordinance's approval, significant examinations will also be conducted in Khasi and Garo, in addition to English. However, Sangma noted that implementing these changes will take time due to logistical considerations and manpower regulations.

A key motivation behind this initiative is to urge the Central Government to recognize Khasi and Garo under the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution. In July 2018, the State Assembly unanimously passed a resolution advocating for the inclusion of these languages.

Sangma expressed hope that the recognition of Khasi and Garo as official languages would convey a powerful message to Parliament, leading to their inclusion in the Eighth Schedule.