Karnataka govt mandates widespread use of Kannada in state operations

A directive issued by the Karnataka State Government mandates the widespread use of Kannada in all commercial and government operations throughout the state.

The government asserts that this initiative is intended to strengthen the language's role in administration, education, and commerce.

In line with the Kannada Language Comprehensive Development Act, which the government claims aims to promote the "comprehensive development of the Kannada language and provide better opportunities for Kannadigas in all aspects of life," the directive aligns with recommendations made by the Kannada Development Authority.

The new directive mandates that Kannada take priority in the day-to-day operations of all Karnataka government offices, educational institutions, and commercial businesses.

To ensure Kannada remains the primary language, this includes workplace communications, public signage, advertisements, and even product usage instructions.

“The name and directions for use of all industrial and consumer products manufactured in the state, in both government and private sectors, shall be printed in Kannada alongside other languages,” reads the directive.

The government has instructed officials to monitor implementation closely and address violations promptly, warning of legal consequences for non-compliance.

Karnataka has long advocated for the implementation of Kannada, and protests have occurred on several occasions.

Speaking at a recent event in Bengaluru, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar emphasized that the government is committed to making Kannada the “language of life.”

“Our aim is to make Kannada a language of life. All of us must show our respect for our motherland by proudly hoisting the flag of our land,” he said.

Recent attacks on buses and their crews, who lacked Kannada signage, led to the suspension of bus services between Karnataka and Maharashtra amid a language dispute.

Due to the absence of Kannada nameboards, pro-Kannada protesters had previously targeted several stores in Bengaluru.

The Karnataka government's new directive arrives amid significant controversy surrounding the National Education Policy and its three-language policy.

This policy has faced strong opposition from Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin, sparking sharp criticism from the BJP.