Kasargod:
Kannada-speaking minorities in Kerala, particularly in Kasargod district, have expressed serious concern over the state government’s new language policy, which makes Malayalam compulsory as the first language even in Kannada-medium schools.
Community members say the move has created fear and confusion among parents and students, who worry that Kannada-medium education may gradually lose its identity. Parents argue that forcing Malayalam as the first language undermines the purpose of Kannada-medium schools and places additional academic pressure on children from Kannada-speaking households.
Minority organisations have warned that the policy could weaken linguistic rights guaranteed under the Constitution and marginalise generations of Kannada speakers living in Kerala’s border regions. They have demanded clear safeguards for Kannada in education and administration.
While Kerala government officials have maintained that the policy is not intended to harm minority languages, Kannada-speaking communities are seeking written assurances and consultations to protect their language and cultural identity.
