The correct option is 1965.
Explanation
The provisions regarding the Official Language of the Union are enshrined in Part XVII of the Constitution of India. Article 343 specifically addresses the official language of the Union and the transition from English to Hindi.Detailed Analysis:
According to Article 343(1), the official language of the Union is Hindi in Devanagari script. However, the Constituent Assembly recognized the practical difficulties in immediately replacing English.
- Article 343(2) mandated that for a period of 15 years from the commencement of the Constitution, the English language would continue to be used for all official purposes of the Union for which it was being used immediately before such commencement.
- The Constitution commenced on January 26, 1950.
- Calculating 15 years from this date, the mandated period for the use of English was set to expire on January 26, 1965.
While the original provision set 1965 as the deadline, Article 343(3) empowered the Parliament to provide for the continued use of English beyond this period by law. This power was exercised through the enactment of the Official Languages Act, 1963, which allowed English to continue as an associate official language indefinitely.
Key Takeaway:
The original text of the Constitution (Article 343) stipulated a 15-year timeline (1950-1965) for the cessation of English for official purposes, subject to extension by Parliament.