Controversy erupts over 'exemption' to govt display boards from Kannada rule

NT Correspondent

Bengaluru: Controversy surrounds a new rule stipulating that 60% of display content must be in the Kannada language, especially as it excludes government display boards.

The Department of Industries and Commerce, Government of Karnataka, alongside the Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) and the Association of Women Entrepreneurs of Karnataka (AWAKE), hosted the SWAVALAMBAN MELA – 2024 event at Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath in the city, coinciding with International Women’s Day celebrations from March 15 to 17.

Despite the rule, large display boards at the event predominantly featured English content, with an estimated ratio of 90% English to 10% Kannada, even utilising the state logo in English.

Even the names of dignitaries on the dais were in English. This apparent disregard for the rule by government departments has sparked criticism, raising questions about its selective enforcement.