President Droupadi Murmu Unveils Constitution in Santhali Language: A Historic Moment for Tribal Communities

A Milestone for Santhali Speakers

New Delhi: On Thursday, President Droupadi Murmu officially launched the Constitution of India in the Santhali language at Rashtrapati Bhavan. This significant step aims to empower tribal communities by allowing them to access and understand the Constitution in their native tongue.

During her address, President Murmu expressed pride and joy for the Santhali community, noting that the Constitution is now available in their language, utilizing the Ol Chiki script.

She highlighted that this year marks the centenary of the Ol Chiki script and commended the Union Minister of Law and Justice along with his team for facilitating this initiative in such a meaningful year.

The event was attended by notable figures, including Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan and Union Minister of State for Law and Justice Arjun Ram Meghwal.

Santhali, recognized in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution through the 92nd Amendment Act of 2003, is one of India's oldest living languages, spoken by many tribal communities across Jharkhand, Odisha, West Bengal, and Bihar.

The President emphasized that the Santhali version of the Constitution will significantly aid tribal individuals in comprehending the legal framework in their own language.

In her speech delivered in Santhali, she stated, “I am thrilled to present the Constitution of India in the Santhali language written in the Ol Chiki script. This availability brings immense joy to the entire Santhali community.”

She further remarked that Santhali speakers in Odisha, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Assam, and Bihar will now have the opportunity to fully grasp the Constitution in their mother tongue, enhancing their understanding of its articles.

The Vice President expressed gratitude to President Murmu for her leadership in this initiative, stating that it will empower Santhali-speaking individuals to engage with the Constitution and contribute more effectively to nation-building.

He also recalled President Murmu's previous efforts as Governor of Jharkhand to promote tribal welfare and culture, which he continues to support during his own tenure.