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The Official Language of the Union

The Constitution of India, in Articles 343 and 344, establishes Hindi in the Devanagari script as the official language of the Union. Simultaneously, it allows for the continued use of English for official purposes even after fifteen years of the Constitution's adoption. However, the Parliament has the authority to provide for the continued use of English for specific purposes beyond this initial period.

To ensure fair representation of linguistic diversity, the President has the responsibility to appoint a commission that represents different languages specified in the Eighth Schedule. This commission is tasked with making recommendations regarding the official language of the Union and its communication with the states.

Language of the Judiciary and Text of Law

Until the Parliament makes other provisions, all proceedings in the Supreme Court and every high court are conducted in the English language. However, with the consent of the President, the Governor of a state can authorize the use of Hindi or the state's official language in high court proceedings (except for judgments, decrees, and orders, which require an accompanying English translation).

Special Directives for the Protection of Linguistic Minorities

India's linguistic diversity is a treasure to be protected. The Constitution ensures that every aggrieved person has the right to submit representations in any language used in the Union or the state. Such representations cannot be rejected solely on the grounds of not being in the official language.

Furthermore, each state and local authority must provide adequate facilities for instruction in the mother-tongue to children belonging to linguistic minority groups during the primary stage of education.

Development of Hindi Language

The Constitution places a duty upon the Centre to promote the spread and development of the Hindi language. The vision is to make Hindi the lingua franca of India's composite culture, facilitating better communication and understanding among the diverse population.

Inclusion in the Eighth Schedule

The Eighth Schedule of the Constitution initially included 14 languages. Over the years, several amendments expanded this list to include languages like Sindhi, Konkani, Manipuri, Nepali, Bodo, Maithili, Santhali, and Dogri. These languages receive recognition and protection through their inclusion in the Schedule.

Classical Language Status

The Constitutional provisions relating to the Eighth Schedule also play a role in granting classical language status to select languages. Once declared classical, a language receives financial assistance to set up a center of excellence for its study. Scholars of eminence in the field of the classical language are also eligible for prestigious awards.

To be granted classical status, a language must have a high antiquity of early texts or recorded history spanning 1,500 to 2,000 years. Additionally, it must possess a body of ancient literature that holds cultural significance across generations and an original literary tradition that is not borrowed from another speech community.