Assam Enforces Local Language Proficiency for Government Jobs
Guwahati, July 11, 2024 — Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has announced a new policy mandating local language proficiency for all government job applicants. This move aims to safeguard the rights of the indigenous population, following controversy over a recent Higher Education Department notification.
Key Points:
- Mandatory Language Proficiency: Proficiency in the local language is now a prerequisite for all government job selections, as PRCs, obtainable after three years of residence in Assam, were deemed insufficient for protecting local interests.
- Controversial Exemption: A circular issued by the Higher Education Department on July 4 exempted the need for Permanent Resident Certificates (PRCs) for roles such as Assistant Professors, librarians, and Grade III and IV employees in colleges. This decision faced strong opposition, particularly from the All Assam Students Union (AASU), which demanded its revocation.
- Official Clarification: Education Minister Ranoj Pegu clarified on X (formerly Twitter) that the circular was issued without official government approval. Consequently, the Director of Higher Education was instructed to retract the notice immediately.
- Investigation Launched: Chief Minister Sarma has ordered an inquiry to ascertain the basis on which the Director of Higher Education issued the circular independently. He stressed that such policy decisions should originate from the government, not individual directorates.
This new policy highlights Assam’s commitment to preserving its cultural and linguistic heritage by ensuring that government job applicants are proficient in the local language, strengthening the connection between public service and the indigenous community.
