A report by a Karnataka government-appointed committee recommending that Tulu be declared the second official language of the state is awaiting action, pending a cabinet reshuffle. The report, submitted in March, has not yet been formally discussed due to political developments.
Committee President Calls for New Minister's Attention
Dr Taranath Gatti Kapikad, president of the Karnataka Tulu Academy, told TOI that discussions on the report can only take place after a new minister assumes office. He noted that the committee had earlier discussed the proposal with former chief minister Siddaramaiah and conveyed its recommendations, but political developments prevented formal meetings and follow-up action.
Kapikad expressed confidence that the report would be taken up in the next assembly session. "We have been assured support by both the previous and current leadership," he said.
Andhra Pradesh Model Studied for Implementation
The committee studied Andhra Pradesh's model, where Urdu has been implemented as an additional official language. Kapikad explained, "We visited Andhra Pradesh and examined how Urdu was introduced, including policy guidelines, administrative processes, and implementation at the local body level. Based on this, we have drafted and submitted a detailed report that Karnataka can use as a reference."
The Andhra model involved a phased rollout, initially covering select districts before expanding statewide. Kapikad said the government has been convinced about the cultural and linguistic significance of Tulu and expressed concern over preserving and promoting it.
Geographical Spread and Political Support
Tulu is primarily spoken in Dakshina Kannada, parts of Udupi, and parts of Kasaragod in Kerala. Puttur MLA Ashok Rai expressed confidence that Tulu will soon be declared the second official language. He said he would take up the issue with the new minister and push for it to be discussed in the next assembly session. "I have already initiated efforts and am committed to seeing it through this year," Rai added.
Rai noted that implementation is likely to begin in Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts before expanding gradually, following the Andhra Pradesh model.
Committee Visit to Andhra Pradesh in January
The seven-member committee, chaired by KM Gayatri, state director of the Kannada and culture department, visited Andhra Pradesh on January 19 and 20. The panel, which included Taranath Gatti Kapikad, held consultations with departments in Amaravati and NTR district. They met Andhra Pradesh chief secretary Vijay Anand, officials of the minority welfare department, Urdu language bodies, and representatives from municipal bodies, police, educational institutions, and district authorities. The committee submitted its report to the department of Kannada and culture in March.
