New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday praised the release of the Constitution of India in the Santhali language, describing it as a “commendable effort” that would enhance constitutional awareness and encourage greater democratic participation among tribal communities.
Responding to a post by President Droupadi Murmu on X, the Prime Minister said that making the Constitution available in Santhali would help deepen public understanding of constitutional values and strengthen democratic engagement. He added that the nation takes pride in Santhali culture and in the contributions of the Santhali people to India’s progress.
The Prime Minister’s remarks came after President Murmu formally released the Santhali version of the Constitution, written in the Ol Chiki script, at a function held at Rashtrapati Bhavan.
Addressing the gathering on Thursday, the President described the occasion as one of pride and happiness for the Santhali community. She expressed confidence that the initiative would enable people to read and understand the Constitution in their own language, thereby making its principles more accessible.
President Murmu said the availability of the Constitution in Santhali would empower tribal communities by clearly conveying the rights, duties and values enshrined in the document. She also noted that the release coincides with the centenary year of the Ol Chiki script and appreciated the Union Ministry of Law and Justice and its team for publishing the Santhali version during this landmark year.
Calling the development a moment of joy for all Santhali people, the President said that access to the Constitution in one’s mother tongue strengthens democratic participation and fosters a deeper understanding of constitutional ideals.
Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan and Union Minister of State for Law and Justice Arjun Ram Meghwal were among the dignitaries present at the event.
The Santhali language was included in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution through the 92nd Constitutional Amendment Act, 2003. It is among India’s oldest living languages and is spoken by a large tribal population across Jharkhand, Odisha, West Bengal and Bihar.
Speaking in Santhali, President Murmu said she was delighted to release the Constitution in the language and described the publication as a source of immense happiness for the entire community. She reiterated that making constitutional texts available in indigenous languages bridges the gap between citizens and the democratic system, ensuring broader participation and inclusivity.
With inputs from IANS