Lumbini Province Demands Official Status for Magar and Tharu Languages

Butwal. A demand has been made to make Magar and Tharu languages the official working languages in Lumbini Province. On Wednesday, various indigenous ethnic organizations submitted a memorandum to Chief Minister Chet Narayan Acharya, raising demands related to language, culture, and identity, and made the demand.

Nepal Magar Sangh Lumbini Province Committee has demanded the implementation of the Magar language as the official working language at the provincial level. The memorandum, signed by the organization's chairman Khulu Prasad Pun Magar, states that since the Magar language is widely spoken in the province, its use in government offices, information, and service delivery should be ensured.

The organization has also demanded the management of employees who know the Magar language, the arrangement of necessary training, and effective implementation in coordination with local levels. It is believed that this will facilitate the Magar community in obtaining government services and strengthen the inclusive governance system.

Similarly, Tharu Kalyanakarini Sabha Dang has also submitted a memorandum to the Chief Minister demanding recognition of the Tharu language as an official working language. Chief Minister's Press Advisor Dasharath Ghimire said that Ashok Kumar Chaudhary, chairman of the Sabha, demanded immediate implementation as the Tharu community has a significant population in Lumbini Province and the Language Commission has also made recommendations.

In the meeting, Chief Minister Acharya pledged that the provincial government would formulate necessary policies and laws for the conservation and promotion of the language, culture, and civilization of indigenous ethnic groups, informed advisor Ghimire.