Odia language schools in West Bengal stare at uncertain future

Odia Chatasalis (community-run language schools) established in neighbouring West Bengal to promote and preserve the Odia language are facing an uncertain future, with teachers alleging neglect and prolonged non-payment of dues.

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Though these schools were set up to safeguard Odia language and culture in Odia-speaking pockets outside Odisha, the language itself is now said to be under threat there.

After the formation of the separate Utkal Province in 1936, several Odia-speaking areas of present-day West and East Medinipur were merged with West Bengal.

Even today, many residents in regions such as Mirzapur and Changadia under Dantan police limits in the neighbouring state continue to speak Odia. To cater to the younger generation, Odia Chatasalis were established in these areas.

Currently, two such Chatasalis—one in Changadia and another in Mirzapur—are functioning with over 40 students, all residents of West Bengal, who are being taught Odia during leisure or break hours.

Teachers say the children show keen interest in learning the language, and Odia teachers have been appointed to keep the tradition alive. However, allegations have surfaced that these dedicated teachers, who have devoted their lives to protecting the Odia language and culture, are being ignored and deprived of timely remuneration.

According to sources, since 2004, with the support of the Odisha government and cooperation of Utkal Sammilani, around 650 Chatasalis and Odia schools have been functioning in neighbouring states.

In West Bengal alone, more than 143 teachers are working on meagre salaries. Payments reportedly stopped during the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak and have again remained unpaid since 2024.

Meanwhile, Odisha School and Mass Education Minister Nityananda Gond has said that complaints related to internal disputes and alleged irregularities within Utkal Sammilani are under consideration, and assured that the issue would be resolved soon, followed by the release of pending funds.

“A disturbance has occurred between Utkal Sammilani committee members. Allegation of corruption has also surfaced. Complaints were made relating to irregularities. Hence, it is now under consideration of the Government,” Minister Nityananda Gond stated.

Reported By: Abhijeet Biswal, Ajit Kumar Das