In an announcement on Thursday, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah declared that modifications would be introduced to the Kannada Language Comprehensive Development Act. The amendments would stipulate that businesses across the state must allocate 60 percent of their signboards and nameplates to the Kannada language. The Chief Minister directed shop owners to implement this change by February 28, 2024 and assured the enactment of an ordinance to enforce compliance.
The decision arose in response to the demands of pro-Kannada organizations advocating for the inclusion of Kannada language displays on signboards, nameplates, and advertisements. This initiative follows the recent directive by the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) stating that trade licenses of non-compliant businesses would be revoked.
In the wake of the civic body's order, pro-Kannada activists initiated a campaign against businesses in Bengaluru that did not adhere to the 60 percent Kannada rule on nameboards. The activists either removed or defaced signboards lacking Kannada language. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, in response to these actions, expressed that while his government supports peaceful protests, it will not tolerate violations of the law. He emphasized this during a high-level meeting attended by officials from the BBMP and the Culture Department.
Siddaramaiah disclosed plans to amend the Kannada Language Comprehensive Development Act, originally passed during the previous BJP government. Currently, Section 17(6) of the Act mandates businesses to display half of their signboards in Kannada, allowing the other half to be in any language. The proposed amendment aims to alter this ratio to 60/40 in favor of Kannada, reinforcing the language's prominence.
The Chief Minister urged private establishments to adhere to the forthcoming amendment and change their signboards by February 28. He underscored the importance of maintaining law and order, emphasizing Kannada's significance in Karnataka and urging compliance with the law.
Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar expressed support for the pro-Kannada activists' cause but cautioned against taking the law into their own hands. While acknowledging their right to peacefully voice demands, he emphasized the government's commitment to enforcing the 60 percent rule. Shivakumar stated that businesses failing to comply would receive notices, highlighting the government's dedication to both safeguarding business interests and upholding Kannada's prominence in the state.
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