Hindi Introduced as Official Language in Assam Assembly

Hindi is set to be introduced as an official language in the Assam Legislative Assembly, joining Assamese, English, and Bodo. Speaker Ranjeet Kumar Dass announced the decision on Sunday, July 5, 2026, following a meeting of the assembly’s General Purpose Committee. This marks a historic first for the state legislature, which aims to provide broader linguistic recognition within the House.

The announcement coincides with the start of the 16th Assembly’s Budget session, which is scheduled to run for 21 working days, concluding on July 31. The state budget is slated to be tabled on July 10. Speaker Dass emphasized that the move is intended to honor Hindi’s status as a "Rashtra Bhasha" (national language).

Addressing Concerns Over Language Status

The announcement triggered public speculation regarding the potential removal of the Bodo language from assembly proceedings, particularly following protests by the All Bodo Students' Union in Kokrajhar. However, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma intervened to clarify the government’s position.

In a statement posted to his official X (formerly Twitter) account, Chief Minister Sarma confirmed that he had been briefed by the Speaker and that there is "no proposal to withdraw the use of the Bodo language" from assembly proceedings or any official business. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to preserving Bodo, describing it as an "inseparable part of Assam's rich cultural heritage and identity."

Digital and Infrastructure Upgrades

Alongside the introduction of Hindi, the Assembly has initiated technical upgrades to its broadcast infrastructure. The internal channel previously known as ALA (Assam Legislative Assembly) has been renamed "Assam Vidhan Sabha TV."

Speaker Ranjeet Kumar Dass stated that the objective is to modernize the platform, with aspirations to elevate Assam Vidhan Sabha TV to the operational standards of national-level parliamentary channels like Lok Sabha TV and Rajya Sabha TV.

Official Sources

• Assam Legislative Assembly: Official announcements regarding language adoption and the Budget session schedule.

• Office of the Chief Minister of Assam: Clarifications regarding the status of the Bodo language.

• General Purpose Committee (Assam Assembly): The body responsible for the decision to introduce Hindi.

Quote Section

According to Speaker Ranjeet Kumar Dass: "Since Hindi is a 'Rashtra Bhasha', as a sign of respect for it, we have decided to introduce it in the House."

Why It Matters

The inclusion of Hindi in the Assembly proceedings reflects the state's efforts to integrate into a broader national linguistic framework while maintaining the multilingual identity of the region. By retaining Assamese, English, and Bodo alongside the new addition, the legislature aims to balance national recognition with the preservation of regional heritage.

Key Facts at a Glance

• Effective Date: July 6, 2026 (start of the Budget session).

• Included Languages: Assamese, English, Bodo, and newly added Hindi.

• Session Duration: 21 working days, ending July 31.

• Budget Presentation: Scheduled for July 10.

• Channel Update: 'ALA TV' rebranded as 'Assam Vidhan Sabha TV'.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does the introduction of Hindi replace any existing languages?

No. Assamese, English, and Bodo will continue to be used in the Assembly.

2. Why was Hindi introduced in the Assam Assembly?

Speaker Ranjeet Kumar Dass stated that the decision was made as a sign of respect for Hindi's status as a "Rashtra Bhasha."

3. Is Bodo still an official language of the Assembly?

Yes. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma confirmed there is no proposal to discontinue the use of Bodo in assembly proceedings.

Source: Assam Legislative Assembly, Chief Minister of Assam X Account, ANI News, The Times of India