The Jaiñtia National Council (JNC) today met with JHADC CEM Thombor Shiwat and held discussions on preservation of Pnar language, culture and tradition.
The organisation reminded the district council chief of the recognition of the A-B Jaiñtia alphabet, which was officially announced in the Meghalaya gazette in 2021. The JNC stressed on the need for the JHADC to begin using the A-B Jaiñtia script in its historical documents, particularly in legislative matters, and when issuing various notifications and to explore means to introduce the Jaiñtia alphabet, especially in schools under its authority.
It also highlighted the importance of the JHADC passing a resolution to urge the state government to recognize the Pnar language as one of the official languages in Meghalaya by incorporating it into the Meghalaya State Language Act.
The JNC said children of Jaintia Hills (Pnar, War, Khynriam, Bhoi), adopt surnames from the mother, which distinguishes the people from other ethnic groups within the Jaiñtia Hills borders. However, some individuals are attempting to mislead the community into altering its uniqueness. It suggested the JHADC formulate a robust law to safeguard the culture of the community.
The organisation urged Shiwat to convene a special session to address the matters.
The CEM informed the organisation that the proposal for the alphabet has already been submitted to the state government and currently the law department is reviewing the matter.
Meanwhile, JNC General Secretary Wanshwa Suting, along with the CEC leaders also met EM of Trade, Jesse Suiam to voice concerns that indigenous people have been relegated to mere consumers, and the labour force has also been largely filled by non-tribals.
According to the JNC, the heritage of the community is at stake unless the Dorbar Shnong, Dorbar Elaka, and JHADC take timely action. The leaders urged the district council to limit non-tribal shops to enable the indigenous people to secure employment for themselves, particularly for the future generation.
“If the JHADC and the Dorbar Shnongs fail to act, the JNC will no longer remain passive but will mobilise its members to conduct checks on non-tribal shops throughout Jaiñtia Hills, especially those operating illegally,” the organisation said.
The JNC said that the EM assured that the district council will collaborate with the organisation and take necessary action.
Additionally, the organisation demanded establishment of a revenue department for the JHADC in East Jaiñtia Hills to enhance service delivery and improve mobility for the residents of East Jaiñtia, particularly the underprivileged.
