PINAKI MAJUMDAR
Jamshedpur, Dec 29: President of India Droupadi Murmu on Monday highlighted the immense contribution of the Ol Chiki script to preserving the pride, identity, and existence of the tribal community, particularly the Santhals.
Addressing a gathering at the Karandih Jaherthan premises in the outskirts of Jamshedpur, the President said the efforts made to promote Ol Chiki every year are truly commendable, as they strengthen cultural roots and linguistic heritage.
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She praised the dedication of individuals who take time out from their daily lives to work for the development of Ol Chiki and for carrying forward the visionary work of Pandit Raghunath Murmu.
Referring to the Santhali translation of the Constitution, President Murmu said the Constitution was published in Ol Chiki during the birth centenary year of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
She described this initiative as a significant step towards empowering the Santhal community, as Santhali is included in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution.
Emphasising the importance of legal awareness, she said many innocent people have suffered due to a lack of knowledge of rules and regulations, making it essential that such information be available in one’s own language.
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The President also underlined the widespread presence of the Santhal community across India and the world, noting that Ol Chiki serves as a strong unifying identity, fostering unity and awareness within society.
She said the event itself was a reflection of that collective spirit.
