Why promote Kannada on name boards? HC asks BBMP

The High Court of Karnataka sought the BBMP’s response on a petition challenging the civic body’s circular asking businesses to reserve 60% of space on their name boards for Kannada.

The Retailers Association of India and other businesses have challenged the July 22, 2017, BBMP order, asking all licensed retailers to ensure 60% of display on their name board in Kannada in bold letters and 40% in other languages.

Observing that language is a reflection of our tradition, the court asked the BBMP to promote the Kannada language in educational institutions and not in commercial establishments. It also added that promoting languages cannot be done by keeping name boards as a medium.

The order warned retailers that they would lose their trade licences if they failed to comply. However, they asked the court to quash the order, saying it was illegal, arbitrary and against the provisions of the Karnataka Municipal Corporations Act, 1976.

The court asked the BBMP to submit a reply on the sustainability of its order, and adjourned the case.