Manipur University has stepped back from what could have sparked a major controversy over language use on campus. A directive issued just last week making the use of Hindi compulsory for official noting and drafting has now been suspended, pending further review.
The First Order
On August 29, the University’s Registrar issued Office Order No. 274 following recommendations of the Official Language Implementation Committee. The circular instructed all departments and administrative sections to start using Hindi in their official files and communication. It even outlined plans for quarterly inspections to check compliance, raising alarms that this could snowball into a rigid “Hindi-noting regime.”
Sudden Rollback
Barely four days later, on September 2, another circular—Office Order No. 279—was issued. This time, the same Registrar clarified that the August 29 directive was being kept “in abeyance” due to “procedural lapses.” No further explanation was provided, but the quick reversal signals a rethink within the University administration.
Why It Matters
Manipur has a long and complex relationship with language policy. While Hindi is one of India’s official languages, it has not traditionally been the medium of administrative or academic work in the state. Moves perceived as “Hindi imposition” often trigger public concern, particularly in a region where indigenous languages and English play central roles in education and governance.
Had the August 29 order been enforced, it might have placed staff and departments unfamiliar with Hindi in an uncomfortable position, and potentially sparked wider resistance across the academic community.
What Next?
With the September 2 rollback, the university has bought itself breathing space. However, the episode has already sparked debate over whether the push for Hindi in central institutions should be voluntary or mandatory.
For now, university staff will continue using the languages already in practice, but the controversy has left lingering questions about policy clarity, transparency, and respect for Manipur’s linguistic diversity.