Karnataka submits complaint to Kerala Governor opposing Malayalam Language Bill, says it is against interests of linguistic minorities

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Karnataka has protested against the Malayalam Language Bill passed by the Kerala Legislative Assembly on October 9, 2025, and sent for the Governor’s approval. The state claims that the bill goes against the interests of Kannada-speaking linguistic minorities in Kasaragod district.

The bill makes it mandatory for all government and aided schools in Kerala to teach Malayalam as the first language from Class 1 to 10. In northern Kasaragod, in areas such as Kasaragod and Manjeshwaram taluks near the Chandragiri River, the main languages spoken are Kannada and Tulu. Currently, schools teach both Kannada and Malayalam. The bill’s requirement that all students must study Malayalam as the first language has sparked opposition.

Representatives of the Karnataka Border Area Development Authority (KBADA) met Kerala Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar in Kasaragod and requested the withdrawal of the bill. They also filed a review petition. The Governor assured that the matter could be examined seriously. Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has also expressed opposition to the bill through social media.

The KBADA claims that the bill violates constitutional protections for linguistic minorities under Articles 30, 347, 350, 350A, and 350B.

Key provisions of the bill

1. All government and aided schools in Kerala must make Malayalam the first language from Class 1 to 10. Schools should promote the spread and use of Malayalam.
2. Students whose mother tongue is a language other than Malayalam should still be given the opportunity to learn Malayalam.
3. Malayalam is to be adopted as the state’s official language and used for all official purposes.
4. The bill aims to ensure the use and growth of Malayalam across all regions of the state.

Demand for Kannada

KBADA has demanded that Kannada-medium schools be staffed with Kannada teachers. Kannada should be used on boards at police stations, railway stations, and national highways in Kasaragod. Official communication in public offices in Kasaragod should also be conducted in Kannada.