Bhasha Andolan, Odisha founder Subhas Chandra Pattanayak on Wednesday demanded early scrapping of the Odisha Official Language (Amendment) Rules, 2019 saying it adversely affects one’s right to his language.
“The Orissa Official Language Act 1954 was enforced soon after its passing as per Section 1 (2 and 3) of the Act. As per Section 2 (1), it had been decided to do all official works of the Government in Odia. But the Rules framed in 2019 have made the right to language enshrined in the Act void,” alleged Pattanayak.
While the Rule 5-A (1) provides for awarding wide users of Odia in official work, the Rule 5-A (2) provides for action against officials who don’t use Odia adequately as per the The Orissa Civil Services (Classification, Control and Appeal). Rules, 1962. “From the rule 5-A (1), it is evident that the Government will award those who even don’t use Odia fully. And from Rule 5-A (2), it is understood that stringent action will not be taken against nonuser of Odia,” pointed out Pattanayak.
He said the 1962 Rules have never been applied against any official for violation of Government norms.
“Common people should have the right to take action against officials who will not work in Odia. Right to Language is an unwritten basing right of common people.
Thus, anyone can opt for legal action against anybody who violates his or her right to language. Thus, the the Odisha Official Language (Amendment) Rules, 2019 soon,” demanded Pattanayak.
