Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan clarified the state’s Malayalam Language Bill, 2025, assuring it safeguards linguistic minority rights and does not impose Malayalam. The Chief Minister’s statement directly addressed concerns raised by Karnataka-based groups. These organizations fear the Bill’s provisions could negatively impact Kannada-speaking communities residing in Kerala’s Kasaragod district.
On Wednesday, the Karnataka Border Areas Development Authority (KBADA) met with the Kerala Governor. The delegation submitted a formal memorandum. They urged the Governor to halt and re-evaluate the proposed legislation. KBADA specifically alleged the Bill mandates Malayalam as the first language for students from classes 1 to 10. This mandate, they claimed, would apply across all government and private Kannada-medium schools located within Kasaragod district. The Governor reportedly assured KBADA representatives of a “thorough review” of the Bill’s provisions.
Malayalam Bill Protects Language Rights
Chief Minister Vijayan directly refuted the concerns, stating the Bill does not violate existing language rights or impose Malayalam. He pointed to Clause 7 of the Bill, described as a clear and unambiguous “non-obstante clause.” This specific provision is designed to safeguard the linguistic rights of minority communities, particularly those speaking Kannada and Tamil within Kerala. Vijayan emphasized that “key provisions ensure that no language is imposed and linguistic freedom is fully protected.”
Official Communication in Mother Tongue
The Chief Minister provided further details on official language use for minorities. He stated that in designated “notified areas,” Tamil and Kannada speakers retain the right to use their mother tongues. This applies to official correspondence directed to the Secretariat, various Heads of Departments, and local government offices. Crucially, replies from these government bodies will be issued in the same respective languages, ensuring accessibility and respect for minority languages in administration.
No Mandatory Malayalam Exams
Vijayan also clarified the Bill’s stance on Malayalam examinations. Students whose primary language is not Malayalam are exempt from compulsory Malayalam examinations. They maintain the freedom to choose other languages available under the National Education Curriculum. This exemption extends to students from other Indian states or foreign countries. Such students will not be compelled to appear for Malayalam examinations at the Class 9, Class 10, or higher secondary education levels. This ensures no academic disadvantage based on linguistic background.
Constitutional Alignment Affirmed
KBADA, however, strongly criticized the Bill, declaring it “wholly unconstitutional.” The Authority contended the Bill violates several fundamental rights enshrined in the Indian Constitution. Specifically, they cited Articles 30, 347, 350, 350A, and 350B. These articles collectively guarantee various safeguards and protections for linguistic minorities in India. In response to these constitutional challenges, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan asserted that Kerala’s language policy fully adheres to the Official Languages Act, 1963. He also referenced Articles 346 and 347 of the Indian Constitution, which pertain to official languages. Vijayan concluded by stressing that India’s rich linguistic diversity “is to be celebrated, not forced into a single mould,” and reiterated his government’s dedication to federal rights and individual linguistic identity.