ANP KP President urges protection of regional languages as shared heritage on International Mother Language Day

PESHAWAR, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 21st Feb, 2026) Awami National Party (ANP) Khyber Pakhtunkhwa President Mian Iftikhar Hussain marked International Mother Language Day by emphasizing that diverse languages of the province, including Pashto, Hindko, Saraiki, Gojri, Kohistani, and Torwali, constitute a vital shared cultural heritage.

In his statement issued here Saturday, he highlighted that a mother tongue serves as more than just a communication tool; it is a fundamental pillar of a nation's identity, civilization, and intellectual history.

He asserted that the protection of these languages was a collective responsibility of both state and society, expressing regret that mother tongues have historically been denied their rightful official status.

To rectify this, he called for their effective integration into the education system, media, and government affairs.

Reflecting on the ANP's tenure, Hussain noted party's historic efforts to promote linguistic diversity, such as incorporating mother tongues into school curriculum at Primary level and establishing Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Regional Languages Authority.

He detailed how these initiatives included formal teacher training, development of textbooks, and dedicated linguistic research. However, he lamented that many of these advancements were rolled back following the ANP's time in government.

Reaffirming his party's commitment, Hussain stated that ANP remains dedicated to its struggle for linguistic rights and the advancement of education in mother tongues.