Manipur’s ethnic and linguistic diversity demands a form of leadership that rises above narrow community interests and ensures that every section of society feels recognised within the state’s political and administrative framework. The Chief Minister, as the head of the government, bears a particular responsibility in this regard. His words, actions and public communications carry significance beyond personal preference and can influence public perceptions of inclusion and belonging.
Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh’s use of Meitei Mayek in a social media post has brought this responsibility into focus. The issue, however, should not be reduced to a debate over the legitimacy of the script. The more important question is whether the government can promote the state’s official language while remaining sensitive to the linguistic diversity of its people.
Manipuri, also known as Meiteilon, is an official language of Manipur, and Meitei Mayek is an important part of its cultural heritage. The Manipur Official Language (Amendment) Act, 2021, provides for the use of Meetei Mayek alongside Bengali script for Manipuri during the stipulated transitional period, in addition to English. The preservation and promotion of Meitei Mayek are therefore legitimate objectives and should not, by themselves, be interpreted as acts of exclusion.
Yet, official recognition of one language does not absolve the government of its responsibility towards other linguistic communities. Manipur is home to numerous communities, including the Tangkhul, Thadou, Paite, Hmar, Anal, Kom, Rongmei, Mao, Maram, Maring, Moyon, Monshang and Poumai, each with its own linguistic traditions and cultural identity. Their languages and the challenges associated with their preservation and use may differ, but their place in Manipur’s social and cultural fabric deserves due consideration.
The question is not whether the Chief Minister should use Meitei Mayek. He is entitled to do so. The real issue is whether the government has a consistent policy to ensure that its communications remain accessible to the people it serves.
When official messages concern public safety, welfare schemes, administrative decisions or peace and reconciliation, accessibility becomes a matter of public responsibility. Depending on the intended audience and importance of the communication, translations or parallel versions in relevant languages can help ensure that essential information reaches different communities. This need not mean translating every government announcement into every language. It requires a practical, transparent approach that recognises the needs of the intended audience.
The government should therefore clarify how it intends to promote Manipuri and Meitei Mayek while supporting linguistic diversity through education, cultural programmes and public information. Consultation with representatives of different communities could help develop appropriate measures without undermining the status of the official language.
At the same time, linguistic differences must not be turned into another source of ethnic confrontation. Meitei Mayek should not be portrayed as inherently exclusionary, just as the promotion of Manipuri should not be treated as incompatible with the cultural rights of other communities. Cultural pride and inclusive governance are not competing objectives.
This distinction is particularly important in Manipur, where ethnic divisions and questions of political representation have placed public trust under considerable strain. Appeals for unity, peace and reconciliation must be reflected in the everyday functioning of government. Symbols and language may carry different meanings for different communities, making sensitivity and responsible communication essential.
The Chief Minister’s responsibility extends beyond demonstrating pride in his own linguistic and cultural heritage. It includes ensuring that government institutions operate fairly and that every community has reason to believe its concerns and identity matter.
The test of leadership, therefore, is not the script used in a social media post. It is whether the government consistently upholds the principles of recognition, accessibility and inclusion.
Manipur needs leadership that can promote Meitei Mayek with confidence while respecting the linguistic traditions of all its communities. The official status of Manipuri is not weakened by acknowledging other languages.
On the contrary, a government that protects its cultural heritage while respecting diversity strengthens the foundations of a shared political community. In a multi-ethnic state, inclusive leadership is not an option; it is an obligation.
Leader writer : Sh. Ajit
