After Hindi, Pro-Kannada Accounts Target #UrduImposition, Question Congress Silence But Fear 'Consequences'

Karnataka Congress is under attack from the pro-Kannada accounts on social media for their 'selective silence' on the ongoing language debate.

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, in the past, has accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of 'imposing' Hindi on Kannadigas.

While the silence continues on why the three-language policy is not effectively implemented, the Congress also faces criticism from language activists for remaining silent on the growing dominance of Urdu in certain regions of Karnataka.

This issue has gained traction on social media, with many activists accusing the Congress party of selective outrage regarding language imposition, raising concerns about the state's language policy.

Siddaramaiah’s government, and the Congress party in general, have been vocal against the imposition of Hindi, often highlighting the importance of protecting regional languages like Kannada.

However, this stance has now come under scrutiny due to the perceived contradiction in their approach toward Urdu.

Pro-Kannada activists argue that while the Congress aggressively resists the promotion of Hindi in the state, it appears to be lenient, if not complicit, in allowing Urdu to gain an increased presence in local administration, education, and public signages in parts of Karnataka.

This does not just create a space for an 'external' language to dominate the public space, but also falls short of culturally integrating the Muslim community within Karnataka.

Critics point out that this selective approach to language imposition has raised questions about the Congress party's broader political motives. Many see this as an attempt to appease minority communities, particularly the sizeable Urdu-speaking Muslim population in Karnataka, a demographic seen as a key voter base for the party.

Social media platforms have become a battleground for pro-Kannada activists, who have been vocal in criticising the Congress’s silence on the Urdu issue. While many activists remain focused on criticising the BJP for it, some independent voices are emerging from the shadows.

In anonymity, one of these activists tells Swarajya: "I know at least four to five accounts that have received monetary support from Congress leaders and full time Kannada activists to purchase a blue-tick. This increases their reach and one section can continue to dominate social media with their one-sided, politically-motivated narratives."

Another 'X' user we spoke to said something on the same lines: "These people (pro-Kannada activists) make money using language as an excuse and create more divisions within the society. I am completely apolitical. I love Kannada, and have respect for people from outside, but at the same time we won't hold back if our self-respect is mocked at."

They argue that the state government should take a consistent stand against the imposition of any language — be it Hindi or Urdu — if it genuinely seeks to protect Kannada's cultural and linguistic heritage. Many activists have called for an even-handed approach, demanding that those advocating the use of Urdu in public spaces face the same resistance as those promoting Hindi.

The debate around language imposition in Karnataka has a long history. The state has often witnessed movements to protect and promote Kannada in public life, from signboards to government communication.

Earlier this year, Purushottama Bilimale, Chairman of the Kannada Development Authority, faced criticism for suggesting that the matter of teaching Kannada in Urdu-medium schools and madrassas be put on hold as the minority community is opposing it.

Critics argue that the party’s focus on Hindi and reluctance to address the rising influence of Urdu reflect political expediency rather than a genuine commitment to language preservation. They contend that the Congress, under CM Siddaramaiah, may be seeking to consolidate its minority vote bank, particularly in urban areas like Bengaluru and Mysuru, where Urdu-speaking populations are more concentrated.

This has put Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and the Congress party in a difficult position. While the party has long championed the cause of 'resisting' Hindi imposition, its silence on Urdu is now being interpreted as a double standard by pro-Kannada activists.