Language to be used in Parliament
Article 120 — Language to be used in Parliament
anything in Part XVII, but subject to the provisions of article 348, business in Parliament shall be transacted in Hindi or in English: Provided that the Chairman of the Council of States or Speaker of the House of the People, or person acting as such, as the case may be, may permit any member who cannot adequately express himself in Hindi or in English to address the House in his mother-tongue. (2) Unless Parliament by law otherwise provides, this article shall, after the expiration of a period of fifteen years from the commencement of this Constitution, have effect as if the words “or in English” were omitted therefrom.
Plain English Summary
This article states that all business in the Parliament of India must be conducted either in Hindi or in English. However, a member who struggles to speak Hindi or English can be allowed to speak in their mother tongue. After fifteen years from the Constitution's start, the requirement for using English will become mandatory.
Key Points
- Parliamentary business must be done in either Hindi or English.
- A member may be permitted to speak in their mother tongue if they cannot express themselves adequately in Hindi or English.
- The rule regarding English usage will become absolute after fifteen years from the Constitution's commencement.
Why It Matters
This article ensures that parliamentary proceedings are conducted in languages that facilitate effective communication, balancing national linguistic diversity with the need for official business in major languages.
Landmark Judgements
No major landmark judgements.