News & Pics: Harshini

Udupi, Jul 13: “Karnataka Rakshana Vedike (KRV), Udupi unit will oppose the imposition of Hindi language in Karnataka and Malayalam name boards at Sri Kolluru Mookambambika temple,” said district president of KRV, S R Lobo in a press meet at KRV office here on July 12.

“KRV has been fighting from the last 19 years for saving Kannada language. Kannada has a history of 2000 years. But the five states regional languages are influencing Dakshina Kannada and Udupi district. Kannadigas are not opposing the use of other regional languages. But according to the order of Karnataka government, the first priority should be given to Kannada in all local organizations,” said S R Lobo.

Speaking about the issue further, Thegur Jagadish Urs, Chikkamagluru, district in-charge of Dakshina Kannada and Udupi said, “The Malayalam boards are being highlighted at Kolluru temple and its surrounding area. This results in domination of Malayalam language over other regional languages. Who is responsible for this situation? Is it not an insult for Kannada? As the temple comes under the state Muzarai department administration, the administrative committee and board of the temple should take certain measures in saving Kannada language. The Kannada language should get first priority in hotels, shops, commercial malls and in other bill boards. The concerned department should draw its attention towards saving Kannada.”

In order to make its agenda prominent, the vedike has called a collective meeting in Bengaluru on July 15. During the meeting, a demand will be put forth to all CMs of neighbouring states to give adequate place to Kannada.

Sudesh Shet, district chief secretary, Sujay Poojary, Taluk KRV president, Rekha Palan and others were present.