Archive · 3 Jun 2025
ALF Translates Indian Constitution Preamble Into Regional Languages
Imagine a very important introduction to the rules of India, like the beginning of a special rulebook.
Some people, like Ashwini Bodh and ALF, are putting this introduction into different languages that people in Karnataka speak.
This makes it easier for people to understand the rules because they can read them in their own language.
So far, they have translated the rules into six languages, using help from people who know these languages well.
They want to do this for many more languages so that everyone can understand the rules better and feel connected to their country.
Alternative Law Forum (ALF) is translating the Indian Constitution's Preamble into multiple languages in Karnataka.
The project is led by Ashwini Bodh, a lecturer, activist, and researcher.
So far, the Preamble has been reproduced in six languages.
Native speakers and researchers assist with the translations, ensuring accuracy.
The goal is to translate the Preamble into around 15 languages of the state to increase constitutional literacy.
- Who
- Alternative Law Forum (ALF) and Ashwini Bodh
- What
- ALF is translating the Preamble of the Indian Constitution into multiple languages of Karnataka.
- When
- The project began around the time of the CAA-NRC protests and continues today.
- Where
- Karnataka, India
- Why
- To promote constitutional literacy and help people connect with the Constitution in their native languages.
- Organization
- Alternative Law Forum (ALF)
- Project Lead
- Ashwini Bodh
- Primary Focus
- Constitutional literacy
- Initial Languages
- Aruvu, Byari, Iruliga, Lambani, Malame, Sankethi
- Target Languages
- ~15 languages