Historic Milestone: Constitution of India Now Available in Kashmiri Translation

The translation of India's Constitution into Kashmiri represents a watershed moment for the language. Led by Prof. Aejaz Mohammad Sheikh of the University of Kashmir, an 11-member multidisciplinary team spent over two years on this project, which began in August 2023 when the National Translation Mission approached the professor.

The significance extends beyond mere translation. Experts believe this project strengthens Kashmiri's capacity to function as a language of governance and law. As Sheikh noted, the translation demonstrates that Kashmiri possesses the grammar, lexicon, and strength to express complex legal ideas, moving the language beyond its traditional literary circles.

The rigorous process involved individual drafts, intensive seven-day workshops, and detailed comparisons with English and other language versions. The team debated every term and tested every phrase to maintain exactness and authenticity. After public feedback over three months, President Droupadi Murmu formally released the final version on November 27. The translation uses standard Kashmiri Perso-Arabic script in an accessible style, making it available on the Union law ministry's website.