Karnataka businesses, schools, colleges ordered to hoist 'Kannada flag' on November 1

Karnataka Rajyotsava (state formation day) is on November 1.

The Karnataka government has mandated that IT-BT companies, factories, private institutions and educational institutes to celebrate Karnataka Rajyotsava (state formation day) on November 1.

"The government has issued an order that schools, colleges, IT-BT institutions, factories, and other private establishments in Bengaluru city must celebrate Karnataka Rajyotsava on November 1 by hoisting the Kannada flag," deputy chief minister and Bengaluru Development Minister DK Shivakumar told mediapersons on October 11.

Also read: Kannada Development Authority urges state mandate for govt hospital prescriptions in local language

“To educate the next generation about the importance of the Kannada language, programmes should be organised in government and private schools along with this, cultural programme should be held,” he said. About 50 percent of the population in Bengaluru city is from outside the state and they should be given an opportunity to learn Kannada. "With this in mind, I am announcing this decision on Vijayadashami day," the deputy CM said.

"Even if IT-BT companies and factories do not conduct cultural events, they must celebrate Rajyotsava by hoisting the Kannada flag." Organisations which celebrate Rajyotsava are required to send photos via WhatsApp to a number provided by the BBMP (Bengaluru civic body), he added.

Also, read: Karnataka Govt mandates red-yellow ID card lanyards for employees to commemorate 50 years of state's renaming

“This year marks the 70th Karnataka Rajyotsava, which will be celebrated statewide. It is the duty of everyone to learn Kannada in the land of Kannada. As the minister in charge of Bengaluru, I am announcing this decision.”

Shivakumar said that the government issued an order requiring all organisations to celebrate Karnataka Rajyotsava. "No pro-Kannada organisation or others can threaten or disturb any organisation regarding the celebration. Action will be taken in case of any disturbances," he said.