Kokborok Language and the Eighth Schedule Demand

The Kokborok Sahitya Parishad, a tribal literary body in Tripura demanded for the inclusion of the Kokborok language in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution.

Key Demands by Kokborok Sahitya Parishad

The demand highlights Kokborok’s significance as a linguistic and cultural identity marker for the indigenous communities of Tripura.

1. Constitutional Recognition:
   • Inclusion of Kokborok in the Eighth Schedule for national-level preservation, development, and promotion.
2. Script Flexibility:
   • Stated that Kokborok can be appropriately written in either Bengali or Devanagari.
     1. Emphasized the historical use of Bengali script by Kokborok scholars.

About Kokborok Language

• Etymology: The term “Kokborok” is derived from:
  • Kok = verbal
  • Borok = people/human
• Speakers: It is the most widely spoken tribal language in Tripura, predominantly spoken by the Borok people, also known as Tripuris.
• Linguistic Classification: Belongs to the Tibeto-Burman language family.
  • Functions as the lingua franca among multiple tribal communities: Debbarma (Tripuri), Reang, Jamatia, Noatia, Kalai, Rupini, Murasing, Uchoi.
• State Language: It is recognised as one of the State languages of Tripura.
• Script Usage: Traditionally written in the Bengali script.
  • Devanagari and Roman scripts are also widely considered.
• UNESCO Status: Classified as ‘Vulnerable’ in the UNESCO Atlas of the World’s Languages in Danger.

DOWNLOAD PDF