Introduction & Summary
Articles 343 and 344 of the Constitution lay down the fundamental framework for the official language of the Union. Article 343 declares Hindi in Devanagari script as the official language, while also making a crucial provision for the continuation of English for a transitional period of 15 years. This foundational compromise was further solidified by the Official Languages Act, 1963, which allowed English to continue indefinitely.
Article 344 complements this by providing for the establishment of a Commission and a Committee of Parliament on Official Language, tasked with reviewing and recommending steps for the progressive use of Hindi and the continued use of English, thereby ensuring a flexible and adaptable linguistic policy for the Union.
22.2.1: Official Language of the Union (Article 343)
Article 343 specifically outlines the official language of the Union, balancing the aspiration for a national language with pragmatic considerations.
22.2.1.1: Hindi in Devanagari Script
"The official language of the Union shall be Hindi in Devanagari script."
This establishes Hindi as the primary language for the Union's official purposes, a significant step towards linguistic identity for independent India.
22.2.1.2: International Form of Indian Numerals
"The form of numerals to be used for the official purposes of the Union shall be the international form of Indian numerals."
This decision was a significant compromise, opting for the internationally recognized Arabic numerals (0, 1, 2, 3...) rather than the Devanagari script's numerical symbols. This choice aimed to ensure broader acceptance and ease of international communication.
22.2.1.3: Continuation of English for 15 Years
"Notwithstanding anything in clause (1), for a period of fifteen years from the commencement of this Constitution, the English language shall continue to be used for all the official purposes of the Union for which it was being used immediately before such commencement."
This transitional provision was crucial for easing the fears of non-Hindi speaking states and ensuring continuity in administration, commerce, and legal affairs. The period ended on January 26, 1965.
22.2.1.4: Parliamentary Power to Continue English
"Provided that the President may, during the said period, by order authorise the use of the Hindi language in addition to the English language and of the Devanagari form of numerals in addition to the international form of Indian numerals for any of the official purposes of the Union."
"Provided further that after the expiration of the said period of fifteen years, Parliament may by law provide for the use of—
(a) the English language, or (b) the Devanagari form of numerals, for such purposes as may be specified in the law."
This second proviso is critical, as it gave Parliament the flexibility to decide on the continued use of English beyond 1965, if needed. (Source: The Constitution of India, Article 343; Laxmikanth, Indian Polity)
22.2.2: Official Languages Act, 1963 (as amended in 1967)
This Act was a direct legislative response to the proviso in Article 343(3) and the evolving political landscape, particularly the anti-Hindi agitations.
22.2.2.1: Enacted by Parliament under Article 343(3)
The Act was passed in 1963, well before the 1965 deadline, foreseeing the need for continued use of English and preempting potential linguistic conflict.
22.2.2.2: Continued Use of English Indefinitely
The Act provided for the continued use of English, in addition to Hindi, for official purposes of the Union and for use in Parliament, even after January 26, 1965.
Crucially, it stipulated that English would continue to be used indefinitely until legislatures of all non-Hindi speaking states pass resolutions for its discontinuance. This essentially gave non-Hindi speaking states a veto power over the discontinuation of English, addressing their anxieties.
22.2.2.3: Assurances by Prime Ministers Nehru and Shastri
Amidst strong anti-Hindi agitations, particularly in Tamil Nadu, Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru gave an assurance in 1959 (and reiterated by his successor Lal Bahadur Shastri in 1965) that English would continue to be used as an associate official language as long as non-Hindi speaking people desired it. The Official Languages Act, 1963, and its 1967 amendment formalized this assurance. (Source: Official Languages Act, 1963 (as amended); Bipan Chandra, India Since Independence)
22.2.3: Commission and Committee of Parliament on Official Language (Article 344)
Article 344 outlines the mechanism for reviewing and recommending the progression of official language use, ensuring a consultative and adaptive approach.
22.2.3.1: Official Language Commission
- Mandatory Appointment: President must constitute a Commission at the expiration of five years from the Constitution's commencement, and thereafter at ten years.
- Composition: Chairman and other members representing different languages specified in the Eighth Schedule, ensuring linguistic diversity.
- Functions: To make recommendations to the President regarding progressive use of Hindi, restrictions on English, inter-state communication, language in courts, form of numerals, and other related matters.
- First Commission: Appointed in 1955 under the chairmanship of B.G. Kher. It submitted its report in 1956.
22.2.3.2: Committee of Parliament on Official Language
- Constitution: 30 members — 20 from Lok Sabha and 10 from Rajya Sabha. Elected by proportional representation (single transferable vote).
- Function: To examine the recommendations of the Official Language Commission and report its opinion thereon to the President. This acts as a parliamentary check and deliberative body.
- First Committee: Formed in 1957 under the chairmanship of Govind Ballabh Pant.
22.2.3.3: President's Power to Issue Directions (Article 344(6))
"Notwithstanding anything in Article 343, the President may, after considering the report of the Committee referred to in clause (4), issue directions in accordance with the whole or any part of that report."
This clause empowers the President to issue directives based on the recommendations filtered through the Parliamentary Committee, giving effect to the progressive language policy.
Summary Table: Official Language of the Union (Articles 343-344)
| Feature | Article 343 (Official Language of the Union) | Article 344 (Commission & Committee) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Language | Hindi in Devanagari script. | Commission recommends progressive use of Hindi. |
| Numerals | International form of Indian numerals (0, 1, 2...). Parliament can provide for Devanagari form. | Commission recommends form of numerals. |
| English Use | Continues for 15 years (till 1965). Parliament can provide for its continued use even after 15 years. | Commission recommends restrictions on English use. |
| Key Bodies | N/A |
Official Language Commission: President appoints (5 & 10 years). Chaired by B.G. Kher (1955). Recommends on Hindi, English, numerals, etc. Committee of Parliament: 30 members (20 LS, 10 RS). Formed in 1957 (Chaired by G.B. Pant). Examines Commission's report. |
| Decision Authority | Parliament (by law) for post-1965 English use. | President (after considering Committee's report) issues directions. |
| Legislative Backing | Official Languages Act, 1963 (as amended 1967) enacted under Art 343(3), allowing indefinite English use. | N/A |
| Political Assurances | PM Nehru, Shastri assured indefinite English use until non-Hindi states desire discontinuance. | N/A |
Prelims-Ready Notes
Article 343 Highlights:
- Official Language: Hindi in Devanagari script.
- Numerals: International form of Indian numerals.
- English: Continued for 15 years (till 1965). Parliament can extend its use by law.
Official Languages Act, 1963 (amended 1967):
- Enacted under Art 343(3).
- Allowed indefinite use of English for Union official purposes and in Parliament.
- Needs resolutions from all non-Hindi speaking state legislatures to discontinue English.
- Formalized PM Nehru/Shastri's assurances.
Article 344 Bodies:
- Official Language Commission: Appointed by President every 5 and then 10 years. B.G. Kher (1955): First Commission. Recommends on Hindi use, English restrictions, language for courts/communication etc.
- Committee of Parliament on Official Language: 30 members (20 LS, 10 RS), elected by PR-STV. Govind Ballabh Pant (1957): First Committee. Function: Examine Commission's report and report to President.
- President's Power: Can issue directions based on Committee's report.
Mains-Ready Analytical Notes
Major Debates/Discussions
Imposition of Hindi vs. Pragmatism
Initial intent was gradual transition to Hindi. Strong anti-Hindi agitations (1965, Tamil Nadu) led to indefinite English continuation, highlighting political sensitivity and pragmatic necessity of accommodating linguistic diversity.
Role of English
Initially transitional, English became entrenched due to its role in higher education, scientific research, global communication, and as a link language. Its indefinite continuation reflects practical needs and federal harmony.
Language Policy and Federalism
Art 343(3) and OLA 1963 give non-Hindi speaking states a de facto veto power over English discontinuance, demonstrating cooperative federalism in managing linguistic diversity.
Effectiveness of Commissions/Committees
While constitutionally mandated, their actual impact on promoting Hindi without antagonizing non-Hindi speakers has been a delicate balancing act. Recommendations often face varied acceptance.
Historical/Long-term Trends, Continuity & Changes
1950s - Early 1960s: Initial Hopes for Hindi
Early attempts to promote Hindi with Commissions making recommendations. The constitutional vision was for Hindi to gradually become the sole official language.
1965: Watershed Moment & Anti-Hindi Agitation
Strong anti-Hindi agitations, particularly in Tamil Nadu, marked a turning point. This cemented English's continued role indefinitely through the Official Languages Act, 1963, reflecting the power of regional linguistic identity.
1968: Three-Language Formula
A pedagogical attempt to reconcile conflicting demands of Hindi, English, and regional languages in education. Its success has been mixed due to varying implementation across states.
Digital Age & Globalization
Further strengthened the role of English globally, while also providing new avenues for the development and use of regional languages in digital content and media.
Continuity of Dual Policy
The basic framework (Hindi as official, English as associate) has largely remained unchanged due to its political stability and the necessity of managing a linguistically diverse nation.
Contemporary Relevance/Significance/Impact
National Education Policy (NEP) 2020
Promotes multilingualism and mother tongue instruction, while recognizing the importance of Hindi and English. Its success depends on balancing linguistic aspirations within 343-344. (Source: NEP 2020 Document)
Parliamentary Debates
Discussions re-emerge periodically regarding Hindi's use in central government communication, examinations, and official documents, often leading to impassioned arguments.
Judiciary
The dominant role of English in higher judiciary (SC and HC) is a continuous debate, with calls for more regional languages for accessibility balanced against uniformity concerns.
Central Government Communication
Union Government often faces criticism from non-Hindi speaking states if official communications are predominantly in Hindi without adequate English or regional language versions.
Current Affairs and Recent Developments
- Committee of Parliament on Official Language's Recommendations: The Committee periodically submits reports (e.g., 11th Report) reviewing Hindi usage in Central Ministries, PSUs, etc., and recommending further measures. These often spark debate. (Source: Lok Sabha Secretariat, Committee Reports on Official Language)
- NEP 2020 Implementation: The ongoing implementation, emphasizing multilingualism and mother tongue instruction, influences the broader language policy, aligning with constitutional provisions like Article 350A. (Source: Ministry of Education, PIB)
- Debates on Language in Central Exams: Recent public discourse and demands from various states regarding the conduct of central competitive examinations (e.g., SSC, Railways) in all Eighth Schedule languages, to ensure equitable opportunities for non-Hindi speaking candidates. (Source: Parliamentary Questions/Discussions, media reports)
UPSC Previous Year Questions (PYQs)
Prelims MCQs
(a) 42nd Amendment Act
(b) 44th Amendment Act
(c) Official Languages Act, 1963
(d) 7th Amendment Act
Answer: (c) Official Languages Act, 1963
Hint: The Official Languages Act, 1963, enacted under the provision of Article 343(3), provided for the indefinite continuation of English.
- Hindi in Devanagari script is the official language of the Union.
- English was to be used for all official purposes of the Union for a period of ten years from the commencement of the Constitution.
- Parliament may by law provide for the use of English for specified purposes even after the expiration of the initial period.
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (c) 1 and 3 only
Hint: Statement 2 is incorrect; the period was 15 years, not 10. Statements 1 and 3 are correct.
(a) Part XVI
(b) Part XVII
(c) Part XVIII
(d) Part XIX
Answer: (b) Part XVII
Hint: Part XVII (Articles 343-351) deals with Official Language.
Mains Questions
UPSC Mains 2013 (GS Paper II):
The language question in India has been a sensitive one, shaping the federal character of the nation. Discuss the provisions of the Constitution related to official language and critically analyze how they have addressed the linguistic diversity of India. (15 marks)
Direction:
- Introduction: Briefly explain the sensitivity of the language issue and the constitutional solution.
- Constitutional Provisions: Detail Articles 343 and 344 (Language of Union, Commission, Committee), and briefly mention 345-351. Highlight the Munshi-Ayyangar formula.
- Addressing Linguistic Diversity (Successes): Hindi as official, not national, respecting others; Provision for English continuation (Official Languages Act); States' autonomy (Art 345); Safeguards for linguistic minorities (Art 350A, 350B).
- Critical Analysis (Challenges/Limitations): Ongoing debates over Hindi imposition; Uneven implementation of Three-Language Formula; Lingering fears; Role of English.
- Conclusion: Constitutional provisions largely succeeded in maintaining harmony and unity, but the language question remains dynamic, requiring continued pragmatic approach.
UPSC Mains 2016 (GS Paper II):
Examine the factors that led to the enactment of the Official Languages Act, 1963. How has this Act impacted the linguistic landscape of India? (15 marks)
Direction:
- Introduction: Briefly refer to Article 343(3) and the 1965 deadline.
- Factors Leading to Enactment: Constitutional mandate under Art 343(3); Anticipation of difficulties; Strong anti-Hindi agitations; PM Nehru's assurances; Practical necessity of English.
- Impact on Linguistic Landscape: Indefinite continuation of English (permanent dual policy); Reduced friction, maintained unity; Strengthened federalism (states' say); Continued dominance of English (education, judiciary); Impact on Hindi promotion (diminished urgency); Contributed to multilingualism.
- Conclusion: Act was a pragmatic legislative solution that largely stabilized the language issue, allowing diversity to coexist with national unity.
Trend Analysis (Last 10 years)
Prelims: Consistent Focus
- Consistent Focus on Articles: Questions repeatedly test knowledge of Article 343 (Hindi, English, numerals) and its initial 15-year period.
- Official Languages Act, 1963: Its purpose, key provisions (indefinite English use), and the context of its enactment are frequent questions.
- Official Language Commission/Committee: Their composition and function under Article 344 are also tested.
- Trend: Factual, focusing on key constitutional provisions and the landmark Act.
Mains: Analytical & Contextual
- Analytical and Contextual: Questions delve into the reasons behind the policy decisions and their impact on India's linguistic and federal structure.
- Historical Background: Constituent Assembly debates and post-1965 agitations are essential for historical analysis.
- Balancing Act: Analysis of how the provisions manage to balance national unity with linguistic diversity.
- Consequences and Challenges: Discussing the practical implications and ongoing debates surrounding language policy.
- Trend: Requires a holistic understanding of the policy's evolution and its socio-political consequences.
Original Questions
Original MCQs for Prelims
- The official language of the Union shall be Hindi in Devanagari script.
- The numerals to be used for official purposes of the Union shall be the Devanagari form of Indian numerals.
- English language was mandated to be phased out completely after 15 years from the commencement of the Constitution.
(a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (a) 1 only
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is incorrect; it specifies the international form of Indian numerals. Statement 3 is incorrect; it was allowed to continue for 15 years, and Parliament could provide for its continued use even after that, which it did through the Official Languages Act, 1963.
- It consists of 30 members, 20 from Lok Sabha and 10 from Rajya Sabha.
- Its primary function is to directly make recommendations to the President regarding the progressive use of Hindi.
- Members are nominated by the Speaker of Lok Sabha and Chairman of Rajya Sabha.
(a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (a) 1 only
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is incorrect; its function is to examine the recommendations of the Official Language Commission and report its opinion to the President. Statement 3 is incorrect; members are elected by their respective Houses by means of proportional representation by means of the single transferable vote.
Original Descriptive Questions for Mains
Question 1:
"The Official Languages Act, 1963, enacted under Article 343(3), was a crucial legislative response to the deep divisions over India's language policy, ensuring national unity while maintaining linguistic pluralism." Critically analyze the provisions of this Act and its long-term impact on the linguistic landscape and federal dynamics of India. (15 marks)
Key Points/Structure:
- Introduction: Briefly mention the language issue's contentious nature and the Act's role.
- Context of Enactment: Explain the 1965 deadline, anti-Hindi agitations, and PM Nehru's assurances that necessitated the Act.
- Key Provisions of the Act: Continued use of English indefinitely; Requirement for non-Hindi speaking states' resolutions for discontinuance; Hindi to be progressively used alongside English.
- Long-term Impact: Linguistic Landscape (cemented English as associate); National Unity (diffused agitations); Federal Dynamics (enhanced states' say); Education & Administration (English dominance); Promotion of Hindi (diminished urgency).
- Conclusion: Conclude that the Act was a pragmatic, albeit controversial, solution that has largely preserved linguistic harmony and contributed to India's unique multilingual identity.
Question 2:
Examine the roles and functions of the Official Language Commission and the Committee of Parliament on Official Language, as provided under Article 344. How effective have these bodies been in achieving the constitutional objectives related to the progressive use of Hindi while respecting linguistic diversity? (10 marks)
Key Points/Structure:
- Introduction: Briefly introduce Article 344 and the purpose of these bodies.
- Role and Functions: Official Language Commission (appointment, composition, functions, B.G. Kher); Committee of Parliament (composition, functions, Govind Ballabh Pant).
- Effectiveness in Achieving Constitutional Objectives:
- Successes: Structured review, recommendations for Hindi promotion, maintained dialogue, codified rules for Hindi usage.
- Challenges/Limitations: Recommendations advisory, not binding; Slow implementation; Delicate balance; English's continued prominence; Resource constraints.
- Conclusion: While crucial institutional roles, effectiveness is continually tested by socio-political realities and pragmatic demands of a diverse federal nation.