- Kanchan Choudhary
Patna, January 4, 2026 :: Chetna Samiti, a premier organization dedicated to the preservation and promotion of Mithila–Maithili language, literature, and culture, today staged a symbolic protest at the Gardanibagh Dharna Sthal in Patna against the continued neglect of the Maithili Academy. Despite the biting cold, members of the committee sat on protest, demanding the immediate revival of the Maithili Academy in its original autonomous and independent form, which has remained shut for several years.
The protest witnessed the presence of Vivekanand Jha (President), Umesh Mishra (Vice President), Jayadev Mishra (Secretary), Kishor Chaudhary, Acharya Ashutosh Mishra, Narayan Jha, along with several other eminent personalities and a large number of Maithili language enthusiasts.
Addressing the gathering, the Secretary of Chetna Samiti stated that the Maithili Academy has been neglected for years, has become completely staff-less, and is gradually losing sight of its foundational objectives. He emphasized that this situation is a matter of grave concern for the entire Mithila region and millions of Maithili speakers.
The President of Chetna Samiti made a strong appeal to the Government of Bihar to restart the Maithili Academy at the earliest, fill all vacant posts, and ensure that the institution functions in an active, autonomous, and effective manner. He clarified that this demand does not represent a single organization, but reflects the collective aspirations and sentiments of the entire Mithila and Maithili-speaking community.
The committee also warned that if no positive action is taken soon, the movement will be intensified and expanded in a decisive manner.
Present at the protest, Dr. Mrinal Jha pointed out that the Maithili Academy, established in 1976, has virtually ceased to function due to government apathy, lack of adequate funding, and the deputation of its staff elsewhere. He noted that the main gate of the academy remains locked, bringing all activities related to Maithili literature, research, publications, and cultural programs to a complete standstill.
Dr. Jha further clarified, “Today’s protest is symbolic. We will soon once again formally appeal to the Hon’ble Chief Minister to restore the Maithili Academy to its former functional state. If our demands are not met, the agitation will be expanded to include an indefinite sit-in and statewide protests.” Jai Mithila, Jai Maithili.
