Kolkata, 19 August (H.S.).

The Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) has strongly condemned a Sikkim University student for describing the Nepali language as a “foreign language,” calling the remark deeply insensitive and offensive, especially as it comes just a day ahead of Bhasha Manyata Diwas on August 20.

In a sharp statement, the ABVP said such comments are “shameful, irresponsible, and a direct affront to the sentiments of millions of Nepali-speaking Indians.” The student body stressed that Nepali is in no way a foreign tongue but the mother language of a large section of Indian citizens across several states, including Sikkim, Darjeeling, Dooars, Assam, Manipur, Uttarakhand, and Himachal Pradesh.

The organization reminded that after decades of struggle, particularly led by the Gorkha community, Nepali was formally recognized in 1992 when it was included in the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution. This recognition, the ABVP said, clearly affirms that Nepali is an inseparable part of India’s linguistic and cultural heritage.

Warning against attempts to belittle any Indian language, the ABVP stated that such remarks will not be tolerated. “India’s unity rests on its linguistic and cultural diversity, and any move to weaken this fabric will be strongly opposed,” the statement read.

The ABVP has urged the Sikkim University administration to take cognizance of the matter and ensure that academic institutions remain spaces of respect for all scheduled languages. The student body also appealed to the youth to rise above divisive tendencies and safeguard the dignity of their mother tongues along with the identity of the Nepali-speaking community.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh