President Murmu Releases Constitution of India in Santhali Language

A milestone for linguistic inclusion and democratic access

President Droupadi Murmu today released the Constitution of India in the Santhali language , printed in the Ol Chiki script , at a function held at Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi . The initiative marks a significant step towards strengthening linguistic inclusion and empowering Santhali-speaking communities by enabling direct access to the country’s supreme legal document in their mother tongue.

Empowering Santhali-speaking citizens

Addressing the gathering, the President described the occasion as a moment of pride and joy for the Santhali community. She emphasised that the availability of the Constitution in Santhali would help people better understand their fundamental rights, duties and constitutional values . According to her, access to the Constitution in one’s own language deepens democratic participation and strengthens the emotional bond between citizens and the constitutional framework.

Centenary significance of Ol Chiki

President Murmu noted that the release holds special importance as it coincides with the centenary year of the Ol Chiki script . She lauded the Union Ministry of Law and Justice for publishing the Constitution in Ol Chiki during this milestone year, calling it a fitting tribute to the linguistic heritage and cultural identity of the Santhali people.

Leadership and tribal welfare focus

The Vice President, speaking at the event, thanked the President for her guidance and recalled her consistent efforts towards tribal welfare. He highlighted that during her tenure as Governor of Jharkhand , she actively promoted tribal languages, culture and identity. Minister of State for Law and Justice Arjun Ram Meghwal was also present at the ceremony.

Constitutional status of Santhali

Santhali is one of India’s oldest living languages, spoken widely across Jharkhand, Odisha, West Bengal and Bihar . Its inclusion in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution through the 92nd Amendment Act, 2003 , formally recognised its linguistic significance. Publishing the Constitution in Santhali represents another milestone in India’s broader commitment to preserving linguistic diversity and ensuring inclusive governance .

Exam-Focused Points

• Santhali is written in the Ol Chiki script

• Ol Chiki script was developed in the early 20th century

• Santhali was added to the Eighth Schedule by the 92nd Constitutional Amendment Act, 2003

• The Constitution is now available in Santhali language and Ol Chiki script