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What is Article 343 of Indian constitution

What is Article 343 of Indian constitution


 Article 343 of the Indian Constitution deals with the official language of the Union of India.

🔵 Article 343 – Official language of the Union

Clause (1):

  • The official language of the Union shall be Hindi in Devanagari script.

  • The form of numerals to be used for official purposes of the Union shall be the international form of Indian numerals (i.e., 0, 1, 2, 3...).

Clause (2):

  • For a period of 15 years from the commencement of the Constitution (i.e., until 26 January 1965), English may also be used for official purposes of the Union, along with Hindi.

Clause (3):

  • Parliament may by law:

    • Provide for the continued use of English after the 15-year period.

    • Prescribe the form of numerals for official purposes.

🔹 Key Points:

  • Hindi (in Devanagari script) is the official language.

  • English was to be used temporarily for 15 years (until 1965), but its usage was extended due to public and political demand (especially from non-Hindi speaking states like Tamil Nadu).

  • The Official Languages Act, 1963 was passed to allow continued use of English.

📜 Background:

  • The framers of the Constitution intended to promote Hindi but realized the need for a gradual transition from English.

  • This article balances between linguistic unity and regional language diversity.

Here is a comparison chart of Articles 343 to 351 of the Indian Constitution — all related to Official Language provisions:

🗂️ Comparison Chart: Articles 343 to 351 – Official Language Provisions

Article Subject Key Provisions Purpose
343 Official language of the Union Hindi in Devanagari script is the official language. English permitted for 15 years (extended by law). Establishes Hindi as official language, allows temporary English use.
344 Commission and Committee on Official Language President to appoint a Commission (after 5 years) and a Committee of Parliament to promote Hindi. Guides the gradual spread of Hindi.
345 Official language of States States can adopt any language used in the state or Hindi as official language. Grants freedom to states for their official language.
346 Official language for communication between one State and another or with the Union Communication to be in the language authorized by the Constitution or English. Ensures inter-governmental communication.
347 Special provision relating to language spoken by a section of the population President can recognize a minority language for official use if demanded by a substantial population. Protects linguistic minorities.
348 Language to be used in Supreme Court and High Courts English to be used in Supreme Court, High Courts, and for Acts, Bills, etc., unless Parliament provides otherwise. Maintains English in higher judiciary and legislation.
349 Special procedure for enactment of certain laws relating to language Restrictions on Parliament’s power to make laws under Article 348 for 15 years. Caution before changing legal language usage.
350 Language rights of citizens Right to submit representation in any language used in the Union or State. Ensures citizen participation in their language.
350A Instruction in mother tongue Every state shall provide primary education in mother tongue of minority children. Promotes educational inclusion.
350B Special Officer for linguistic minorities President to appoint a Special Officer to report on safeguards for linguistic minorities. Protects minority languages.
351 Directive for development of Hindi Union to promote the spread and enrichment of Hindi as a medium of expression. Strengthens Hindi's national role.

📝 Notes:

  • Articles 343 to 351 are part of Part XVII (Articles 343–351) of the Constitution titled "Official Language".

  • These provisions balance Hindi promotion with protection of linguistic diversity, especially for non-Hindi speakers and minorities.


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