In a move echoing Karnataka’s recent intentions, several Indian states have enforced rules on language prominence on commercial signboards. Here’s a glance at the linguistic signboard landscape:
Karnataka:
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah aims to pass an ordinance requiring Kannada language predominance on shop and office signboards. This initiative stems from the Karnataka High Court’s 2014 stay on a similar rule.
Punjab:
Recently joining the fray, Punjab made Punjabi name boards mandatory for businesses in 2023. The rule imposes penalties for violations and emphasizes the use of Gurmukhi script.
Maharashtra:
In 2022, Maharashtra mandated Marathi signboards, facing resistance from a traders’ body. The Supreme Court, in September 2023, directed Mumbai shops to comply within two months.
Tamil Nadu:
Tamil Nadu’s rule places Tamil at the forefront, followed by English and other languages if applicable. Strict enforcement since 2010 has ensured compliance.
Telangana:
Adopting rules from undivided Andhra Pradesh, Telangana insists on Telugu on signboards, with other languages below. Crackdowns began in 2017 for non-compliance.
Gujarat:
Gujarat’s unique stance allows flexibility, making Gujarati optional on name boards. However, a recent Gujarat High Court directive aims for content on public signboards to be in Gujarati.
As states grapple with language prominence on signboards, the legal and linguistic debate continues to unfold across India. Stay tuned for updates on this linguistic battleground.
