Karnataka Activists Clash With Authorities Over Language Policy Event
Tensions escalated at the Taj West End Hotel on Thursday when members of the Karnataka Rakshana Vedike (Karave) staged a surprise protest against a ‘Hindi Promotion Meeting’ organized by the Central Government’s Home Department under its ‘Raja Bhasha Samiti’ initiative.
Hundreds of Karave activists, led by State President T.A. Narayana Gowda, entered the hotel demanding the cancellation of the event, alleging that it sought to impose Hindi on non-Hindi speaking states. The program was attended by six Members of Parliament, adding to the charged atmosphere at the five-star venue.
The protest was spearheaded locally by Karave District President Dharmaraj Gowda and Women’s Unit President Shweta Mohan. Activists voiced strong opposition to the perceived push to promote Hindi at the expense of regional languages, arguing that such initiatives undermine linguistic diversity and cultural identity.
High Grounds police swiftly arrived at the scene to contain the situation. Several activists were taken into custody following minor scuffles when hotel security attempted to intervene. Authorities confirmed that no major injuries occurred, though the demonstration temporarily disrupted the event proceedings. This incident reflects the ongoing friction between state-based linguistic advocacy groups and central government language promotion policies. It underscores the sensitivity surrounding language imposition in non-Hindi speaking regions, highlighting the challenges authorities face in balancing national initiatives with regional sentiments. The Karave Vedike has warned of further protests If similar events continue in the state, reaffirming their commitment to protecting Karnataka’s linguistic and cultural heritage.
