India, with its diverse cultural landscape, boasts a multitude of languages spoken across its length and breadth. The richness of this linguistic diversity is a testament to the country's pluralistic ethos. However, despite the vast array of languages, only 22 are recognized in the 8th Schedule of the Indian Constitution. One language that advocates argue deserves inclusion is Gojri. Spoken primarily in the Jammu and Kashmir region, Gojri is an integral part of the cultural fabric of the state. This article explores the significance of Gojri and the rationale behind its inclusion in the 8th Schedule of the Indian Constitution.
- Understanding Gojri Language :
The Gujjar and Bakerwal community of Jammu and Kashmir state speaks the Gujari (Gojri) language. It is also spoken in parts of Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, and Rajasthan. It belongs to the Indo-Aryan language family and shares similarities with other languages spoken in the region, such as Punjabi and Dogri. Gojri has a rich oral tradition, with its literature passed down through generations in the form of folk tales, songs, and poetry.
It also has the influence of other languages such as Punjabi, Urdu, Hindi and Pahari. The Gujjar and bakerwal people interacts with each other because of the language Gojri. The Gujjar and Bakerwals of Jammu and Kashmir have been demanding inclusion of Gojri in the 8th scheduled of the Indian constitution because of widespread speaking of the language throughout the Indian sub-continent. As a popular language (Gojri), ten radio and television stations of India and Pakistan broadcasts and telecasts programmes in Gojri language. The Jammu and Kashmir constitute the Gojri speaking people as the third largest linguistic group after Kashmiri constitutes the first and Dogri constitutes the second position respectively. The Gojri of Poonch and Rajouri districts continues to hold the prestige of being the standard variety which is used in mass media and literature. Gojri folk lore is in fact the real and only available link between ancient Gojri and the present day Gojri language in J&K. Out of political consciousness, by 1920s Gujjars started reorganising themselves for the overall development of the community. The leaders involved in the task were among others “ Choudhary Wazir Mohammad Hakla”, “Ch. Ghulam Hussain Lassanvi”, “Mian Nizam-ud-Din Larvi”, “Ch. Dewan Ali”, “Mehruddin Qamer”, “Haji M. Israil Khatana”, & “Ch. Fateh Ali Sarwari Kassana ”.
Despite its deep-rooted cultural significance and widespread usage among the Gojri-speaking population, Gojri has yet to receive official recognition at the national level in India. Advocates argue that this lack of recognition has marginalized Gojri speakers and hindered efforts to preserve and promote the language.
Gojri Speaking constitute more than 15 million in India having 2 to 3 million population in J&K. Being an oldest and significant language of India, it deserves recognition at National level since long. Gujjars, the main speakers of Gojri, mainly live in 12 states of North-Western India, listed as Schedule Tribe ( S.T ) in J&K and Himachal Pradesh and Other Backward Classes ( OBC ) in 10 other states, are fighting vigorously for inclusion of their mother tongue in 8th Schedule of Indian Constitution.
- Cultural Significance:
The inclusion of Gojri in the 8th Schedule of the Indian Constitution would not only acknowledge its linguistic importance but also validate the cultural heritage of the communities that speak it. Language is not merely a means of communication; it is a repository of history, tradition, and identity. For the Gujjar and Bakerwal communities, Gojri embodies their unique cultural heritage and serves as a symbol of their distinct identity.
The Prominent Gujjar leader and an intellectual of J&K SHAMSHER HAKLA POONCHI have been demanding the inclusion of GOJRI language in the 8th schedule of the Indian Constitution. He claimed that this would ensure development and spread of Gojri language. He also claimed that Gojri language is being spoken by a very large number population of Gujjars and Bakerwals in J&K and this number is approximately 34 lakh.
“So keeping in view of the demand of such a huge population of Gujjars and Bakerwals in J&K the inclusion of Gojri language in 8th Schedule of the Constitution is most genuine and justified which in no way should be ignored,” he maintained.
Furthermore, the recognition of Gojri would facilitate the preservation and promotion of the language, ensuring that future generations have the opportunity to learn and embrace their linguistic heritage. Language is a crucial component of cultural preservation, and by acknowledging Gojri, India can take a significant step towards safeguarding the diversity of its linguistic heritage.
- Benefits of adding GOJRI language in 8th schedule of the Indian Constitution :
1. Official Status: Languages listed in the Eighth Schedule are recognized as official languages of India. This means they can be used in official communication, government documents, and judicial proceedings at the national level.
2. Preservation of Cultural Heritage: Inclusion of GOJRI in the Eighth Schedule will help in the preservation and promotion of the cultural heritage associated with the GOJRI language. It will encourage the documentation of literature, folklore, and traditions in the GOJRI language.
3. Legal Protections: Official recognition can also lead to legal protections for the GOJRI language and its speakers, such as provisions for language rights and measures against discrimination based on language.
4. Cultural Diversity: India is home to a vast array of languages and cultures. Adding Gojri would further enrich this diversity, promoting inclusivity and preserving the cultural heritage of the communities that speak the language.
5. Access to Education and Government Services: Official recognition could lead to the inclusion of Gojri in educational curricula and government documentation, ensuring that speakers have access to education and services in their native language.
6. Empowerment of Gojri-Speaking Communities: Official recognition may empower Gojri-speaking communities by providing a platform for their language and culture. This could lead to increased self-esteem and pride among speakers of the language.
7. Promotion of Multilingualism: Recognizing Gojri would promote the idea of multilingualism in India, emphasizing the importance of preserving and celebrating linguistic diversity.
8. International Recognition: Inclusion in the 8th schedule could also enhance Gojri's visibility and recognition on the international stage, potentially leading to increased opportunities for cultural exchange and collaboration.
Overall, adding Gojri to the 8th schedule would not only be a symbolic gesture of respect for linguistic diversity but also have practical implications for the preservation, promotion, and empowerment of Gojri-speaking communities in India.
- Challenges and Way Forward:
While there is widespread support for the inclusion of Gojri in the 8th Schedule, there are also challenges that need to be addressed. These include issues related to standardization, script, and institutional support for the language. However, these challenges are not insurmountable, and with concerted efforts from both the government and civil society, they can be overcome.
In conclusion, the inclusion of Gojri in the 8th Schedule of the Indian Constitution is not just a matter of linguistic recognition but a reaffirmation of India's commitment to diversity, inclusivity, and cultural pluralism and building a more inclusive society where every language and culture is respected and valued.
- The writer can be contacted at shahidhakla360@gmail.com