Tensions between Karnataka and Kerala flared up again on Thursday as the Karnataka government strongly opposed the newly proposed Malayalam Bhasha Bill, 2025 from its neighboring state. The bill aims to make Malayalam a compulsory first language from classes 1 to 10 in all schools, including those with Kannada as the medium of instruction.
Constitutional Concerns and a Call to Withdraw
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has formally urged Kerala Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar to withhold his assent to the bill, labeling it unconstitutional. The Karnataka government argues that the legislation directly attacks the linguistic freedom guaranteed by the Indian Constitution and would harm the interests of the Kannada-speaking minority in Kerala, particularly in the border district of Kasaragod.
"This move is not expected from the Communist government in Kerala," Siddaramaiah stated. He emphasized that the bill would deprive Kannadigas in Kasaragod of the right to learn in their mother tongue. The Chief Minister has called upon his Kerala counterpart, CM Pinarayi Vijayan, to withdraw the controversial bill entirely.
Emotional and Cultural Bonds of Kasaragod
Highlighting the deep cultural connections, CM Siddaramaiah made a poignant remark about the region's affinity. "Kasaragod may be administratively part of Kerala today, but emotionally it belongs to Karnataka," he said. He stressed that the people of Kasaragod are deeply connected to Kannada language, culture, and literature, and protecting their interests is the duty of the Karnataka government.
The Karnataka Border Areas Development Authority met Governor Arlekar on Wednesday. Following the meeting, it was reported that the Governor has promised a thorough review of the bill and assured that the interests of Kannadigas in Kasaragod would be safeguarded.
Legal Precedents and Constitutional Safeguards
The state authorities pointed out that a similar bill was rejected by the President of India back in 2017. They also noted that the Union Ministry of Minority Affairs has repeatedly advised Kerala to protect the interests of its linguistic minorities.
Citing specific constitutional provisions, including Articles 29, 30, 350(A), and 350(B), the Karnataka CM argued that no government should curtail the linguistic freedom of minorities. "Imposing one language over another is unacceptable," he asserted. The state also flagged Section 2(6) of the bill, warning that if passed, Kannada students might be forced to learn Malayalam even if they have no prior knowledge of the language.
This language dispute emerges shortly after the Kogilu Layout demolition incident in Bengaluru, which had already strained relations between leaders of the two states. Warning of strong resistance, Siddaramaiah declared, "We will stand with the Kannadigas of Kasaragod and extend all possible support to protect their linguistic freedom."
