Row erupts in karnataka as congress MP’s hindi speech sparks language debate

Bengaluru : A fresh political controversy has erupted in Karnataka amid the ongoing bypoll season, after Congress MP Prabha Mallikarjun delivered a speech in Hindi during a public rally, drawing sharp criticism and reigniting the language debate in the state.

The development comes at a time when the state government has recently decided to introduce a grading system for the third language in SSLC examinations, a move that has already triggered discussions around language policy. Leaders from the Congress have consistently opposed the alleged imposition of Hindi in Karnataka, advocating for the primacy of Kannada.

However, at a rally held in Davanagere, Prabha Mallikarjun campaigned in support of her son Samarth Shamanur and addressed the gathering in Hindi, which did not go unnoticed. The speech has since gone viral on social media, inviting criticism from various quarters.

Notably, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah was present at the event when the speech was delivered. Critics have pointed out what they call a contradiction in the party’s stance—opposing Hindi imposition on one hand while its own leaders use the language in public platforms.

Social media users and political opponents have been quick to highlight this inconsistency, questioning the Congress party’s commitment to its stated language policy. Many users trolled the leader, arguing that such actions undermine the party’s credibility on the issue.

The controversy has also drawn reactions from pro-Kannada organisations, as well as political groups like the Bharatiya Janata Party and Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, which criticised the use of Hindi in public outreach programmes in Karnataka. They argued that leaders should prioritise Kannada while engaging with local  people.

The incident has further intensified the ongoing debate around “Hindi imposition” in the state, a sensitive issue that has historically evoked strong reactions. Language activists have reiterated the need to protect regional identity and promote Kannada in official and public communication.

The timing of the controversy is significant, as it comes in the middle of electoral activity, where language and regional identity often play a crucial role in shaping public opinion.

With political parties and organisations weighing in, the issue is expected to remain a key talking point in the coming days, adding another layer to Karnataka’s already charged political atmosphere.