Nikhil Kumaraswamy has called on Railway Minister V Somanna to ensure that Limited Departmental Competitive Examinations conducted by the South Western Railways are offered in Kannada. In a letter addressed to the minister, Nikhil expressed concerns over the current policy of conducting these exams only in Hindi and English.
Exam language causes anxiety
The Limited Departmental Competitive Examinations, scheduled for this month, are intended for promotions to the post of Goods Train Manager. However, the restriction to only Hindi and English has created significant anxiety among local employees, according to Nikhil. He emphasized that this practice disadvantages Kannada-speaking staff who are otherwise proficient in their duties.
Demand for linguistic inclusivity
Nikhil urged the ministry to amend the examination language policy to include Kannada, ensuring equal opportunities for all employees. He highlighted that the South Western Railways operates primarily in Karnataka, where Kannada is the official language, and that employees should not be forced to take exams in languages they are not comfortable with.
The letter has sparked discussions about language rights in government examinations. Many employees have voiced support for Nikhil's demand, arguing that linguistic barriers hinder career growth. The minister has yet to respond officially, but the issue is expected to be raised in upcoming railway board meetings.
This move aligns with broader efforts to promote regional languages in official proceedings. Nikhil's appeal underscores the need for inclusive policies that respect linguistic diversity while maintaining administrative efficiency.
