Darjeeling civic body says Nepali language must in hoardings
Times of India | 4 September 2024
SILIGURI: The Darjeeling Municipality has issued a new directive saying that all hoardings within its jurisdiction must be displayed in Nepali. While hoardings can continue to be in other languages, Nepali has been made mandatory. This decision follows a recent announcement by Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA) chief Anith Thapa during 'Bhasha Diwas' at Bhanu Bhawan on Aug 31.Thapa had emphasized the importance of Nepali sign boards within GTA areas, warning that violations could lead to the cancellation of trade licences.
On Tuesday, the Darjeeling Municipality formalized this requirement. Dipendra Thakuri, chairman of Darjeeling Municipality, explained that the decision was made during a board of councillors meeting. "All hoardings and signboards must now feature Nepali. While businesses are free to include other languages, the inclusion of Nepali is mandatory," Thakuri said. He maintained that non-compliance would result in fines.
A professor of sociology at a private college, Roshan Tamang said, by enforcing this directive, the municipality aims to strengthen cultural connection and promote the use of the language in everyday activities. "The directive also reflects the ongoing political and cultural dynamics of the region. This policy could be seen as part of a larger strategy by the GTA and local leaders to highlight and preserve the unique cultural heritage of the Darjeeling hills," said Tamang. Darjeeling Association of Travel Agents (DATA) general secretary Pradeep Lama said it won't impact tourists as both Hindi and Nepali use Devanagari script which can be read easily.