A troubling trend of insults targeting the Kannada language and Kannadigas has emerged on social media, with derogatory remarks from North Indians and immigrants escalating tensions in Bengaluru. Posts claiming “Bengaluru is ours; without us, all the pubs are empty” and offensive comments such as “Dogs and Kannadigas are not allowed” have fueled outrage, further dividing the city’s residents.
The Kannada Identity Under Threat
Incidents like Sugandha Sharma’s Instagram post, in which she claimed Bengaluru would be empty without North Indians, have triggered strong reactions from pro-Kannada activists. These online provocations are not isolated, with complaints about road conditions and personal disputes often transforming into language-based insults. Even criminal cases have seen language used as a tool of harassment against Kannadigas, perpetuating a toxic cycle of hatred.
Despite these challenges, many prominent Kannada writers and the government remain silent on the issue. Kannada and Culture Minister Shivraj Tangadagi has not addressed the increasing online humiliation faced by the community, leaving locals feeling unsupported.
Growing Disrespect for Kannada Language
Several incidents exemplify the disrespect towards Kannada:
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Sugandha Sharma’s Controversial Statement: Sharma’s comment that Bengaluru would be deserted if North Indians left sparked outrage among Kannadigas.
Disrespectful Actions: Some North Indians have been seen making demeaning gestures when discussing Karnataka, showing a blatant disregard for the state’s culture.
Road Naming Disputes: Protests over road names honoring Kannada writers highlight the resistance faced by Kannada culture from local authorities.
Negative Online Portrayals: A viral Google search calling Kannada the “ugliest language” prompted legal threats and demands for apologies from pro-Kannada groups.
Lack of Protection for Kannada Speakers
The government’s failure to take concrete steps to defend Kannada speakers from such insults has deepened the frustration within the community. Despite growing support for the Kannada language, with the High Court ruling in favor of displaying Kannada signboards, more needs to be done to address this rising wave of disrespect.
Urgent Attention Needed
As Bengaluru continues to be a melting pot of cultures, it is imperative that the authorities take action to protect the dignity of Kannada speakers. There needs to be a concerted effort to preserve the language, ensure equal treatment for Kannadigas, and combat the rising wave of disrespect in the city.
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