Is the Karnataka Government Pursuing Official Recognition for the Kannada Flag?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
On July 19, Karnataka's Minister for Kannada and Culture, Shivaraj S. Tangadagi, announced his initiative to seek official recognition for the Kannada flag. With plans to visit New Delhi, the minister aims to engage with Union Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat to garner support for this cultural emblem. Will this effort gain traction?
Key Takeaways
- Karnataka's push for official recognition of the Kannada flag showcases the state's cultural pride.
- The minister plans to meet with the Union Culture Minister to advocate for this cause.
- Concerns regarding funding for the Kannada language have been raised, urging the Centre for more resources.
- The proposal for the flag has historical context, dating back to 2017.
- The BJP has criticized this initiative, calling it a distraction from pressing developmental issues.
Bengaluru, July 19 (NationPress) Karnataka's Minister for Kannada and Culture, Shivaraj S. Tangadagi, announced on Saturday that he has formally approached the Central government to seek official acknowledgment of the Kannada flag.
He plans to lead a team to New Delhi to advocate for this demand in a meeting with Union Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat.
In statements to the media, he remarked, "The current Karnataka flag lacks official recognition. We will request the central government to officially designate it as the state flag. Union Ministers Pralhad Joshi and Shobha Karandlaje, both from Karnataka and known supporters of the Kannada language, should play a pivotal role in ensuring the flag's approval."
The minister indicated that the delegation would head to Delhi shortly.
He clarified that in his correspondence, he emphasized that the Kannada flag would be displayed beneath the national tricolor. "We have also highlighted that the Indian Constitution does not prohibit the existence of a separate state flag. The state flag embodies the culture, sentiments, and identity of our people," he stated.
Expressing concern over the funding allocated to the Kannada language, the Minister expressed, "The classical language status granted to Kannada seems to be a mere token. The financial resources allocated for Kannada are minimal compared to those for Tamil. We will press the Centre to provide adequate funding for the advancement and promotion of the Kannada language."
Previously, the Karnataka government, under Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, had greenlit a proposal for a state flag designed by a committee of nine members appointed by the Department of Kannada and Culture. This proposal was initially submitted to the Centre in 2017 during the last phase of the prior Congress administration.
In the meantime, the BJP has voiced criticism regarding the government's renewed efforts for the Kannada flag. Leader of the Opposition R. Ashoka accused the government of raising this issue to distract the public from what he described as failures in developmental initiatives.
Point of View
It is essential to acknowledge the efforts of the Karnataka government in advocating for the Kannada flag. This push reflects the state's commitment to preserving its cultural identity while also raising pertinent questions about funding for regional languages. The response from the Central government will be critical in determining the future of this initiative.
NationPress
19/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Kannada flag?
The Kannada flag represents the cultural identity and heritage of the Kannada-speaking people of Karnataka. It seeks official recognition to be acknowledged as the state flag.
Why is the Karnataka government seeking recognition for the flag?
The government believes that official recognition will enhance the cultural identity of Karnataka and promote the Kannada language.
Who is leading the delegation to Delhi?
Karnataka's Minister for Kannada and Culture, Shivaraj S. Tangadagi, is leading the delegation to meet with Union Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat.
What concerns did the Minister express regarding funding?
The Minister highlighted that the funding allocated for the Kannada language is inadequate compared to other regional languages, particularly Tamil.
When was the proposal for the Karnataka flag first submitted?
The proposal for the Karnataka flag was first submitted to the Central government in 2017 during the previous Congress administration.
