The Bengaluru Civic Body mandates that shop owners use 60% Kannada on their nameplates.
In a move aimed at promoting the local language and culture, the Bengaluru civic body has issued an order requiring shop owners to install nameplates in Kannada. According to the directive, all commercial shops located on the arterial and sub-arterial roads in the city will be surveyed zone-wise, and those failing to comply with the 60% Kannada language requirement will be issued notices.
Bengaluru, the capital city of Karnataka, is known for its cosmopolitan nature and diverse linguistic landscape. However, in recent years, concerns have been raised about the diminishing use of the local language, Kannada, in commercial establishments. The civic body’s decision to enforce the installation of Kannada nameplates is seen as a step towards preserving and promoting the linguistic heritage of the region.
The survey, covering approximately 1400 km of arterial and sub-arterial roads, will be conducted to identify non-compliant shops. Once the survey is completed, notices will be issued to the identified establishments, urging them to adhere to the 60% Kannada language requirement. The civic body aims to ensure that a significant portion of the nameplates prominently display Kannada script while allowing for other languages to be used as well.
The move has received mixed reactions from the public. Supporters of the initiative argue that it will help preserve the local culture and language and create a sense of belonging for the residents. They believe that the use of Kannada nameplates will not only enhance the aesthetics of the commercial areas but also make it easier for locals and visitors to identify shops.
On the other hand, critics argue that the enforcement of a specific language requirement may be seen as an infringement on the rights of shop owners. They argue that businesses should have the freedom to choose the language they want to use for their nameplates, as long as they are in compliance with existing laws and regulations.
It is worth noting that the civic body’s order does not completely prohibit the use of languages other than Kannada. Instead, it emphasizes the need for a significant portion of the nameplate to be in Kannada. This allows for a balance between promoting the local language and accommodating the linguistic diversity of the city.
Shop owners who receive notices for non-compliance will be given a specified period to rectify the situation and install Kannada nameplates. Failure to comply within the given timeframe may result in penalties or other legal actions. The civic body has also assured shop owners that support and guidance will be provided to help them meet the language requirements.
Overall, the Bengaluru civic body’s decision to mandate 60% Kannada nameplates for shop owners reflects a broader effort to preserve and promote the local language. While the move has sparked debates about language rights and business autonomy, it is ultimately aimed at fostering a sense of pride and inclusivity among the city’s residents.