No Universal Formula For Using One Language In Govt Affairs: Karnataka HC Dismisses Plea Seeking Mandatory Usage Of Kannada In Govt Correspondence

A division bench of Chief Justice NV Anjaria and Justice KV Aravinda said “While the Kannada language which is the local language in the state has to be promoted and to be given importance, that itself will not justify entertaining the present public interest litigation, by directing the government and its officials to use Kannada language.”

The observations were made while hearing a PIL filed by one Gurunath Vadde. The petitioner's counsel urged that people living in rural areas do not understand any language other than Kannada, so only in the correspondence where they receive letters from the government, these people be allowed to communicate with the officials in Kannada since they were otherwise facing difficulties.

The court noted the submission of the government counsel that there has been extensive use of the Kannada language in governmental affairs, correspondence and other communications.

Following this it said “Wherever it is necessary, the use of English language in addition to Kannada language cannot be disbanded. There can be no universal formula as to whether one language should only be used in governmental affairs.”

Before parting, the Court expressed hope that the Government and officers shall as far as possible use the local Kannada language which would subserve the culture and people of Karnataka.

Accordingly, it disposed of the petition.

Case Title: Gurunath Vadde AND State of Karnataka & ANR

Case No: WP 4962/2024

Citation No: 2024 LiveLaw (Kar) 290

Appearance: Advocate J. R. MOHAN for Petitioner.

AGA Niloufer Akbar for respondents