OFFICIAL LANGUAGE
The Constitution of India, under Part XVII, provides a comprehensive framework for the official languages of the country. Articles 343 to 351 specifically address various aspects related to the official language. This part of the Constitution delineates the use of Hindi as the official language of the Union, the use of English for official purposes, and the promotion and protection of linguistic diversity.
The Official Languages Act, 1963, is a pivotal piece of legislation that provides for the continued use of English alongside Hindi for official purposes of the Union and for transactions between the Union and the states. This Act was enacted to address the concerns and apprehensions of non-Hindi speaking states and to ensure smooth and efficient administration across the diverse linguistic landscape of India.
1.Continuation of English Language: The Act provides for the continued use of English for all official purposes of the Union and for communication between the Union and non-Hindi speaking states. This ensures that English remains a link language, facilitating effective communication and administration.
2.Bilingual Communication: It mandates that both Hindi and English be used in certain official documents and communications. For instance, the authoritative texts of bills, acts, ordinances, orders, rules, regulations, and notifications must be published in both Hindi and English. This provision ensures that the information is accessible to speakers of both languages.
3.Parliamentary Proceedings: The Act permits members of Parliament to express themselves in either Hindi or English during parliamentary proceedings. This bilingual approach fosters inclusivity and ensures that all members can participate effectively.
4.Translation and Publication: It requires the translation and publication of rules, regulations, and notifications in both Hindi and English. This provision guarantees that both language versions are available for reference, enhancing transparency and understanding.