CM accuses Centre of neglecting Kannada, imposing Hindi

Federal government is giving step motherly treatment: Siddaramaiah

- NT Correspondent

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Saturday accused the union government of "neglecting" Kannada language and imposing Hindi, calling on people of the state to oppose those who are "anti-Kannada”.

"Federal government is meting out step motherly treatment to Karnataka," Siddaramaiah said during his address on the occasion of state foundation day here in the state capital.

The 70th Kannada Rajyotsava celebrations was organised by the Department of School Education and Literacy.

He charged that the state provides Rs 4.5 lakh crore revenue to the Centre but it is denied its rightful share and is given paltry amount in return.

Noting that injustice is being done to Kannada language, the Chief Minister said, "There are continuous attempts to impose Hindi. Grants are given for the development of Hindi and Sanskrit while other languages of the country are being neglected.”

He also stated that Karnataka is denied funds for the development of the state.

"Injustice is being done to the classical language Kannada by denying adequate funds for its growth. We have to oppose all those who are anti-Kannada," the CM said.

Undelining the need to take Kannada language and its culture to new heights, Siddaramaiah said the neglect of Kannada language in education has caused several problems.