Kannada groups press govt to adopt two-language policy

BENGALURU: The issue of implementing the two-language policy is gaining attention in Karnataka, like in Maharashtra. Kannada groups and education experts are pressuring the state government to enforce the two-language rule, which will require the use of Kannada alongside another language in official contexts.

These organizations have been urging the Chief Minister to implement the bilingual rule, and the government is reportedly considering seeking the opinion of the Education Department on the matter.

The implementation of the two-language rule in Karnataka depends on the Education Department’s report, and the government will decide its stance based on their report.

The state government is under pressure to take a stand against the Centre’s alleged imposition of Hindi while also considering the demands of Kannada organisations. The government’s next move has created much curiosity. There are some major points that need to be considered, and the government just plans to seek a report from the Education Department.

Currently, the three-language policy is in place in the state.

Classes 1-6 follow a two-language system, while Classes 6-8 and 8-10 follow the three-language formula.

For bilingual system to be implemented, the Education Department needs to submit a report to the government.

Even if the Education Department submits the report, it’s unlikely that the rule will be implemented this academic year.

Schools have already started and curriculum teaching is under way, making changes impractical at this time.

Therefore, even if the decision to implement the two-language system is made now, implementation may only be possible from next academic year.