The Bhasa Suraksha Sammilani has demanded a language commission in the State to implement the Orissa Official language Act 1954 properly.
The commission can also recommend using Odia language for official works instead of using English, said Sammilani president Baishnab Parida at a convention held here on Sunday. The commission can also supervise as to how the Act is implemented in Government offices, he added.
The Sammilani demanded action against the officers who would not go by the Act.
Parida said, “The State Government should inform us before bringing any changes in the Act.”
The Sammilani also urged to recruit adequate numbers of Odia teachers and lecturers in all the schools and colleges. It also suggested scholars to conduct research in Odia language.
Koraput Central University Vice-Chancellor Dr Sachhidananda Mohanty, who was present as chief guest, wanted people to love the Odia language. He also said the young generation should be inspired to know about the history, culture and tradition of the State.
Former Assembly Speaker Sarat Kar, Satakadi Hota, Prof Nityananda Satapathy, Prof Raj Kishore Mishra, Barendra Krushna Dhal, Prof Natabar Satapathy and Madanmohan Nayak also spoke, among others.
The Sammilani urged the Government to form the commission comprising experienced bureaucrats, educationists, linguists, judges and computer experts to suggest the Government or its Ministerial committee as to how to implement the Act.
The speakers also demanded quality Odia education in all schools and colleges in the State.