Kerala Finance Minister KN Balagopal assures no discrimination under Malayalam Language Bill 2025
Thiruvananthapuram, January 10
Kerala Finance Minister KN Balagopal sought to reassure the public amid mounting concerns over the proposed Malayalam Language Bill 2025, stating that the legislation would not lead to discrimination against any section of society.
Addressing a press conference here on Friday, Balagopal said, "I can assure you about one thing that there will be no discrimination against anyone in the state," as criticism from neighbouring Karnataka intensified over the bill's provisions.
The proposed bill has sparked a debate over the first compulsory language across Kerala.
Earlier, speaking to the media in Bidar on Friday, regarding the issue surrounding the bill, Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge said language promotion should not amount to imposition. "When states were formed, bifurcation was done on the basis of language. In Kasargod, more than 90% people speak Kannada. There is nothing wrong with promoting a language, but don't enforce it," he said.
On Friday, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah wrote to Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, expressing grave concerns over the bill. In his letter, Siddaramaiah warned that making Malayalam compulsory even in Kannada-medium schools could weaken minority-run educational institutions and burden children in border areas.
Emphasising India's pluralistic ethos, the Karnataka CM noted that regions like Kasargod have historically thrived on linguistic harmony, with Malayalam, Kannada, Tulu, Beary and other languages shaping everyday life and identity. While reiterating Karnataka's pride in the Kannada language, he stressed that language promotion must never become imposition.
Calling for reconsideration, Siddaramaiah urged the Kerala government to engage in wider consultations with linguistic minorities, educators and neighbouring states. He maintained that Karnataka would oppose the bill, if passed, using every constitutional means to defend minority rights and uphold the plural spirit of the Constitution.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Finally! A step to protect our mother tongue. Every state should promote its language. Look at Karnataka, they have their own language policy. Why is it an issue when Kerala does it? We need to preserve Malayalam for future generations.
The Finance Minister's assurance is welcome, but the bill's wording matters. We've seen in other states how "promotion" can become compulsion for government jobs and education. Kerala must ensure this doesn't happen. A detailed, inclusive consultation is needed before passing anything.
I live in Kasargod. My children study in a Kannada-medium school. We speak Tulu at home and Malayalam in the market. This harmony is our strength. Please don't break it with a rigid law. Let languages coexist peacefully. ❤️
Interesting debate. As an outsider, I see both sides. Language is key to culture, but in a diverse country like India, balance is crucial. The constitutional concerns raised by Karnataka CM seem serious. Hope they find a middle path.
Why is this even a controversy? Tamil Nadu has successfully implemented Tamil protection for decades. Malayalam is the soul of Kerala. Making it the first compulsory language in the state is our right. Other languages can be second or third language options.
V < We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.