MSF organizes human chain to protect Manipuri language

The Manipur Students’ Federation (MSF) today organized a massive human chain at Thoubal Keithel in Thoubal district to demand protection and promotion of the Manipuri language. The initiative, held in coordination with local market committees and Meira Paibi women’s groups, aimed to raise public awareness about safeguarding the linguistic and cultural heritage of Manipur.
According to MSF, the Manipuri language is at a critical juncture, facing challenges in its preservation and usage, especially in educational, administrative, and literary domains. While recognized in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution, the federation highlighted that its full implementation and promotion remain inadequate. MSF also recalled the 71st Constitutional Amendment Act of 1992, which recognized minority and linguistic rights, emphasizing that Manipuri must be strengthened and widely used in official, educational, and cultural spheres.
The human chain carried banners and placards calling for concrete measures, including ensuring proper teaching of Manipuri in schools, enhancing its usage in administrative and governmental functions, promoting Manipuri literature, and integrating the language in local records and documentation. The federation stressed that preserving Manipuri is not only a cultural necessity but also a civic responsibility, urging authorities to take proactive steps to support the language.
Speaking at the event, Robert Naorem, Publicity Secretary of MSF, said the campaign is part of a broader effort to sensitize the public and authorities about the importance of linguistic preservation. He added that collective citizen action, alongside institutional support, is vital to ensuring that Manipuri continues to thrive for future generations.
The event witnessed strong participation from students, local committees, and community members, reflecting widespread concern and commitment toward safeguarding the state’s linguistic heritage.