PANJIM: Chief Minister Laxmikant Parsekar on Monday ruled out the possibility of granting official language status to Marathi, saying that the language is being treated on par with Konkani.
“We have to accept that there cannot be two official languages. Konkani has been given official language status. At the same time, Marathi is also given equal weightage. Hence, I appeal to people not to create unnecessary issue or debate on the official language issue,” Parsekar said hinting at Independent MLA Naresh Sawal and Marathi Rajyabhasha Samiti’s demand to grant Marathi official language status.
“Goa has its unique identity and its language makes it different from others. Language plays a role in giving a place an identity. Konkani has played a major role in giving Goa its identity. It is the responsibility of not just the government but of all people to support the State’s official language,” the Chief Minister added.
Sawal, during the Monsoon session of the Assembly, had introduced a private member’s resolution demanding official language status to Marathi. The resolution was adopted with an amendment that stakeholders be consulted before deciding.
The Chief Minister was speaking at the release of the book ‘Vidhansabha Kamkaj Bhasha Margadarshika’ at a function organised by Directorate of Official Language. The book comprises the Goa Legislative Assembly rules of procedures and functioning and proceedings of the House in Konkani.
Parsekar said he would appeal to all the government departments to have most of their communication in Konkani.
Panchayats Minister Rajendra Arlekar questioned as to how long the Goa government will depend on English for its daily working and communications. “It is time we adopt Konkani. With this, State will achieve another milestone,” he said.
