Karnataka Home Minister Emphasizes Language Concerns Along State Borders

Karnataka's Home Minister G. Parameshwara has raised concerns about language issues in border regions, particularly in light of a recent Kerala government directive prioritizing Malayalam. He emphasized the need for both Karnataka and Kerala's Chief Ministers to address these linguistic challenges, especially in areas like Kasaragod, where Kannada is still spoken. The remarks come amid political tensions surrounding the Malayalam Language Bill 2025, with accusations of divisive politics from local BJP leaders. As discussions continue, the implications for communication and administration in these border districts remain significant.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 10, 2026, 12:53 IST

Language-Based State Formation and Current Concerns

On Saturday, Karnataka's Home Minister G. Parameshwara highlighted that the formation of states in India was based on linguistic lines. He stressed the importance of addressing language-related issues in border areas. Speaking to the media in Bengaluru, he referenced a recent circular issued by the Kerala government, which prioritizes the local language, Malayalam. Parameshwara noted that residents in border regions like Kasaragod, located along the Karnataka-Kerala border, continue to speak Kannada. He stated, 'States were formed based on language. The Kerala government has issued an order to prioritize the local language (Malayalam). People living in border areas such as Kasaragod still communicate in Kannada. Both Chief Ministers need to address this issue.'

Rising Language Concerns in Border Districts

His remarks come amid growing concerns regarding the use of language and administrative communication in the border districts of Karnataka and Kerala. Previously, Kerala BJP chief Rajeev Chandrasekhar criticized the Congress and CPI(M) regarding the Malayalam Language Bill 2025. In response to the bill, Chandrasekhar accused both parties of repeatedly dividing people for electoral gains. He described the Congress leadership's focus on language as 'ironic,' pointing out that it is led by an 'Italian woman' and has fielded a 'non-Malayalam speaking MP' from Wayanad.

Political Dynamics and Language Politics

In a conversation with a news agency, the Kerala BJP chief stated that CPI(M) has historically attempted to divide society along class lines and is now resorting to religious and appeasement politics. He alleged that the Congress party, particularly in Karnataka, plays the 'language card' whenever it finds itself in a defensive position. Earlier, Kerala's Finance Minister K.N. Balagopal attempted to reassure the public regarding the proposed Malayalam Language Bill 2025, asserting that the bill would not discriminate against any section of society.