‘How can Jaintia go missing in state anthem?’ asks BJP 

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaJanuary 22, 2024

The state BJP has taken a dim view of the fact that Jaintia language has been excluded from the newly composed Meghalaya anthem, which was released to mark the 52nd Meghalaya Day. 

According to the party, those who have heard the anthem or read its lyrics would know that Jaintia is conspicuous by its absence, while Khasi and Garo have been used along with English. 

The party has also said that during the cabinet meeting that was convened to give a final approval to the lyrics, the sole BJP member in Meghalaya cabinet,  AL Hek, was firm in his view that no state anthem can be made public without the use of Jaintia language and the composers must rewrite the song. However, his repeated objections and suggestions were ignored by the other members present at the meeting.

BJP chief spokesperson Mariahom Kharkrang said, “It’s truly unfortunate that a major language of the state has been left out. We do not know if the omission was by design or by accident, what we do know, is that the lyrics must be added to and this time using Jaintia.” 

“We demand immediate course correction so that all sections are represented and no one’s sentiment is hurt. Khasi, Garo and Jaintia communities united to create this state – our shared history, unified struggles and collective journey must find reflection in whatever represents Meghalaya,” he said.