Mangaluru: The Global Alliance of Tulu Associations (GATA) has formally urged Karnataka Assembly Speaker UT Khader to designate Tulu as the state’s second official language. The appeal was presented in a memorandum on Wednesday.

GATA represents Tulu-speaking communities who have migrated from Udupi, Dakshina Kannada, and Kasaragod to different corners of the globe. Comprising leaders from 27 nations, the organization is committed to preserving and advancing Tulu’s language, literature, culture, and script.

In their request, GATA highlighted Tulu’s status as a pan-Dravidian language with a heritage spanning approximately 2,500 years. Despite its deep historical roots, the language has not received the same institutional support as other Dravidian tongues, necessitating special initiatives for its revival and growth.

The memorandum emphasized that official recognition would reinforce efforts to safeguard Tulu for future generations, preventing its decline amid modern influences. GATA asserted that this move would not only uphold Karnataka’s linguistic diversity but also contribute to the state’s and nation’s cultural prosperity.

The organization also announced plans to meet Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and other ministers to further press their demand.