Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah announces withdrawal of cases against Pro-Kannada activists

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Monday announced the withdrawal of all government cases filed against pro-Kannada activists during past agitations supporting Kannada and Karnataka’s causes.

The announcement came during the unveiling of a statue of Goddess Bhuvaneshwari, the state deity, on the premises of Vidhana Soudha. Addressing the gathering, Siddaramaiah urged activists to compile and submit a list of such cases, which would be reviewed by a cabinet sub-committee headed by the home minister before being cleared for withdrawal.

The CM emphasized the importance of nurturing Kannada and fostering pride among the seven crore Kannadigas. "While we respect all languages, Kannada must be prioritized and used in daily life. Unlike other states such as Kerala or Tamil Nadu, Karnataka allows outsiders to live comfortably without learning the local language. This must change—outsiders should learn Kannada and interact in it," Siddaramaiah stated.

Warning of the potential erosion of Kannada’s significance, he urged people to communicate with non-Kannadigas in the local language to ensure its preservation and prominence.

Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar also announced plans to make hoisting the Kannada flag mandatory on Kannada Rajyotsava Day. "We will issue an official order requiring all organizations, institutions, offices, and companies to hoist the Kannada flag. If needed, the government will distribute flags through the Kannada and Culture Department or BBMP," Shivakumar said, adding that a similar effort last year was delayed due to logistical issues.

The announcements underscore the Karnataka government’s renewed focus on promoting Kannada identity and ensuring the language’s cultural and social significance remains intact.