Imphal, February 02: To expand popularity and usage of Meetei Mayek (script) necessity of amendment of Manipur Official Language Act 1979 and replacement of Bengali script could not be ignored, said Lok Sabha MP Dr T Meinya.

Speaking at the commemoration of 27th Puya Meithaba (burning of ancient scripture) at Hapta Kangjeibung (palace Compound) today, Dr Meinya pledging his personal contribution in developing the ancient Manipuri script observed Education Dept need to play an important role in ensuring popularity and practicality of the script.

Elaborating on the matter, he said Central Government has enough resources to develop recognised Indian languages and its scripts benefits of which can be derived by the State�s Education Department through presentation of proposal, procurement of fund and proper utilisation of the assistance.

In his deliverance, Art and culture Minister Ph Parijat informed that under the chairmanship of CM O Ibobi Singh �Kangla Fort Board� has been constituted to look after conservation and renovation of the historic site and restore it to its past glory which will be made more attractive to resemble originality with the addition of Meetei Mayek signboard at the western side of Kangla Fort within a short period.

MLA Dr Nimaichand Luwang, who also attended the commemoration programme pointed out sharp differences at the floor of the assembly whenever the issue of Meetei Mayek is discussed.

This is inspite of the very fact that politicians of all entity having pledged at public platform to extend their unwavering support on matters concerning the ancient Manipuri script, said the MPP MLA.

Citing such double tongued nature of the politicians as the main hurdle in development of the script, Dr Luwang called upon all concerned especially the legislators to extend cooperation leaving aside petty political differences.

Coming down heavily on script propagandists who are still at loggerheads with one another claiming the number of letter as genuine and authentic, the MLA advised the script enthusiasts to shed their differences so as to develop the script with the Government approved script as its foundation.

Elaborating on it, he said addition or deletion of the script can be effected as per requirement whereas contradictory claims could only complicate general acceptance.

Comment