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Kerala CM Clarifies Malayalam Bill, Ensures No Language Imposition

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has addressed concerns over the Malayalam Language Bill 2025, clarifying its intent to protect linguistic diversity. He highlighted a specific clause that safeguards the rights of linguistic minorities, particularly Kannada and Tamil speakers. The CM stated that in notified areas, official correspondence can be conducted in these languages, with replies issued in the same tongue. He also clarified that students are not compelled to appear for Malayalam examinations, reinforcing the bill's alignment with constitutional values.

Key Points: Kerala CM Vijayan Clarifies Malayalam Bill Amid Karnataka Row

  • Bill has clause safeguarding linguistic minorities
  • Tamil, Kannada speakers can use mother tongue officially
  • Students not compelled to take Malayalam exams
  • Policy aligned with Constitution and Official Languages Act
2 min read

"Key provisions ensure that no language is imposed": Kerala CM Vijayan amid Malayalam Bill row

Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan defends the Malayalam Language Bill, stating key provisions protect linguistic minorities and ensure no language is imposed.

"Key provisions ensure that no language is imposed and linguistic freedom is fully protected. - Pinarayi Vijayan"

New Delhi, January 10

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan responded to the ongoing row surrounding the Malayalam Language Bill 2025, amid escalating tensions with Karnataka, asserting that the apprehensions raised do not reflect the facts or the inclusive spirit of the legislation passed by the Kerala Legislative Assembly adding that the bill contains a clause that particularly safeguards the rights of linguistic minorities.

In a post on X, the Chief Minister said, "Kerala's progress has always been rooted in comprehensive development anchored in equality and brotherhood. The Government remains steadfast in upholding the constitutional values of secularism and pluralism."

Clarifying the intent of the legislation, Vijayan said the Bill contains a clear and unambiguous non-obstante clause (Clause 7) which explicitly safeguards the rights of linguistic minorities, particularly the Kannada and Tamil speaking communities. He emphasised that the government remains firmly committed to protecting linguistic diversity and ensuring that no language is imposed on any citizen.

"Key provisions ensure that no language is imposed and linguistic freedom is fully protected. In notified areas, Tamil and Kannada speakers may continue to use their mother tongues for official correspondence with the Secretariat, Heads of Departments, and local offices, with replies issued in the same languages," Vijayan explained.

Addressing concerns related to education, that were raised by Karnataka leaders particularly concerning Kannada-medium schools in Kasargod, Vijayan stated that students whose mother tongue is not Malayalam are free to choose languages offered in schools in line with the National Education Curriculum. "Students from other states or foreign countries are not compelled to appear for Malayalam examinations at the IX, X, or Higher Secondary levels," he clarified.

Reiterating Kerala's adherence to constitutional provisions, the Chief Minister said the state's language policy is fully aligned with the Official Languages Act, 1963 and Articles 346 and 347 of the Constitution of India. "India's diversity is to be celebrated, not forced into a single mould," he said.

Highlighting the Kerala Model of governance, Vijayan noted that the state's progress has been built on participation and transparency. He asserted that, "Our Government resists any erosion of federal rights while remaining equally committed to protecting the linguistic identity of every citizen."

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rahul R
Good to see the emphasis on constitutional alignment. The Kerala Model has always been about inclusion. However, the communication around this bill could have been better from the start to avoid unnecessary tension with our Karnataka neighbors. We are one country, after all.
M
Michael C
Interesting read from an outsider's perspective. The clause allowing official correspondence in Tamil and Kannada is a smart, practical move. It shows how a state can promote its primary language without marginalizing others. More regions could learn from this balanced approach.
A
Aman W
The part about students not being forced to take Malayalam exams is a relief for many migrant families. My cousin's kids in Kochi go to an English-medium school. This ensures their education isn't disrupted. Language policy needs this kind of sensitivity.
S
Shreya B
"India's diversity is to be celebrated, not forced into a single mould." – This line says it all. We have so many beautiful languages. Promoting one shouldn't mean suppressing another. Hope the implementation on the ground matches the spirit of the bill.
K
Karthik V
As someone from the border region, the concerns about Kannada-medium schools in Kasargod were real. Glad the CM addressed them specifically. Federal cooperation is key. Let's not let politics create walls where none exist. Jai Hind!

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