Penal Provision added to Odisha Official Language Act

ONI Bureau:  Odisha Assembly on Tuesday passed the Odisha Official Language Act-1954, making penal provisions for State Government officials and departments for not using Odia language in official communication.

The State Government made rewards for those who use the language extensively while issuing gazette notifications, drafting bills, amendments and regulations.

The State Assembly also passed the Odisha Official Language (Amendment) Bill, 2018 to make Odia language mandatory on signboards of all Shops and business establishments within Odisha. As per the nod, all shops and establishments to change sign boards within 1 month, violators will pay fine between Rs 1000-5000 and will pay Rs 2000-25000 if found violating guidelines for 2nd time.

It is to be noted that Bhasha Andolan Odisha, an Odia language movement in Odisha, that fights demanding enactment of a law making use of ‘Odia’ mandatory in Office and business establishments. It was their victory of today.

However, the Black Flag March will hold till the official announcement, informed the Chairman of Bhasa Andolan Subhas Chandra Pattanayak, President Pradyumna Satpathy and Convenor Pabitra Maharatha.