The Karnataka Rakshana Vedike (KRV), Udupi district unit, has issued a strict ultimatum, demanding that all commercial establishments in Udupi prominently display nameplates with at least 60% Kannada text within 15 days, or face mass agitation.
Speaking at a press conference on August 6, KRV district president A.R. Prabhakar Poojary criticized the non-compliance with the state government directive mandating Kannada usage on signage for shops, hotels, schools, and colleges.
He stated, “Despite the rule, many businesses in Udupi still display boards only in English. We’ve reported this to the deputy commissioner and submitted a formal memorandum to the city municipal commissioner.”
Emphasizing the need for uniform enforcement, Poojary added, “There should be no exceptions—every establishment must follow this. If compliance is not achieved within 15 days, we will be forced to launch an aggressive protest. The municipal commissioner has assured legal action against violators.”
As a form of protest, he warned, “We will blacken signboards that ignore Kannada and use only English.”
The press conference was also attended by KRV general secretary Hemanth, vice presidents Anil and Sahabudin, and district convener Kiran Pinto.
The group maintains that respecting the local language is not just a legal obligation but a matter of cultural pride and identity.