Santhali Joins the Constitutional Languages as President Launches New Edition
President Droupadi Murmu released the Constitution of India in the Santhali language written in the Ol Chiki script at Rashtrapati Bhavan on December 25, 2025. She said it would help Santhali people read and understand the Constitution in their own language and called it a moment of pride.
The release coincides with the centenary of the Ol Chiki script, and she appreciated the Law Ministry for this effort.
The event was attended by the Vice President and the Minister of State for Law and Justice, highlighting the importance of Santhali, an ancient language included in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution.
Key Details:
- Event: Release of the Constitution of India in Santhali.
- Date: December 25, 2025 (Good Governance Day).
- Location: Rashtrapati Bhavan.
- Significance:
- Makes the Constitution accessible to Santhali speakers in their native language and script (Ol Chiki).
- Promotes linguistic diversity and cultural preservation.
- Aims to deepen constitutional awareness and participation.
- Context: The release coincided with the centenary year (100th anniversary) of the Ol Chiki script.
- Attendees: Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan and Union Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal were present.
Background on Santhali:
- An ancient living language spoken by tribal communities in Jharkhand, Odisha, West Bengal, and Bihar.
- Included in the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution via the 92nd Amendment Act, 2003, recognizing it as one of India’s scheduled languages.