Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah Opposes Kerala's Malayalam Language Bill, Citing Constitutional Protections for Linguistic Minorities

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has strongly opposed Kerala's proposed Malayalam Language Bill-2025, characterizing it as a "coercive approach" that undermines linguistic freedom and constitutional protections.

Siddaramaiah argues that mandating Malayalam as the compulsory first language even in Kannada-medium schools violates Articles 29, 30, 350A, and 350B of the Indian Constitution, which safeguard linguistic minorities' rights to mother tongue instruction. He emphasizes that language is not merely academic but central to student identity, dignity, and educational opportunity.

The Karnataka chief minister highlighted the particular concerns of Kasaragod district in Kerala's border areas, where generations of students have studied in Kannada-medium schools and where local representatives report majority preference for Kannada instruction. He stressed that India's unity depends on respecting linguistic diversity rather than imposing uniformity.

While affirming Kerala's right to promote Malayalam, Siddaramaiah warned that Karnataka would oppose the Bill through constitutional means if passed. He called for reconsideration, stating that language promotion should encourage flourishing rather than enforcement.