Marking Karnataka Rajyotsava, the 70th formation day of the state, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah reignited the debate over language equality in India, accusing the BJP-led central government of favoring Hindi and Sanskrit while neglecting regional languages, including Kannada.
Siddaramaiah Accuses Centre of Neglecting Kannada
Speaking at a Rajyotsava event in Bengaluru on Saturday, Siddaramaiah alleged that the Centre allocates substantial grants for Hindi and Sanskrit, but overlooks other Indian languages, including Kannada.
“There are continuous attempts to impose Hindi. Grants are given for the development of Hindi and Sanskrit, while other languages of the country are being neglected,” the Chief Minister said.
He claimed that Karnataka contributes ₹4.5 lakh crore in revenue to the Centre, yet receives only a small portion in return. “Injustice is being done to the classical language Kannada by denying adequate funds for its growth,” Siddaramaiah added.
Call to Protect Kannada Language and Culture
The Chief Minister urged the people of Karnataka to “oppose all those who are anti-Kannada”, asserting that the language represents the identity, heritage, and pride of the state.
“We must protect our language and culture from any form of imposition,” he said, adding that Hindi dominance is “weakening the linguistic diversity” of the nation.
Criticism of Language Policy in Education
Siddaramaiah also called for legislation to make the mother tongue the primary medium of instruction in schools.
He argued that overreliance on English and Hindi was diminishing the creative potential of students in Karnataka.
“Children of developed nations think, learn, and dream in their mother tongue. Here, English and Hindi are weakening the talent of our children,” the CM remarked.
Renewed Centre–State Language Debate
This is not the first time Siddaramaiah has accused the Centre of linguistic bias. His latest remarks come amid growing regional discontent over language and federal funding policies.
Political analysts say that the comments could reignite the long-standing debate over Hindi imposition and language autonomy among southern states.
PM Modi Extends Rajyotsava Greetings
Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended greetings to the people of Karnataka, praising the state for its “excellence, innovation, and cultural heritage.”
Despite political differences, leaders across parties acknowledged the significance of Karnataka Rajyotsava as a day of unity and pride.
Formation Day of Several Indian States
November 1 holds national significance as Formation Day for multiple Indian states and Union Territories.
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Karnataka, Kerala, and Madhya Pradesh were reorganized on this date in 1956.
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Chhattisgarh was formed on November 1, 2000, after separation from Madhya Pradesh.
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Puducherry celebrates its Liberation Day on November 1, marking its de facto transfer from French to Indian administration in 1954.
