Bengaluru: Retailers association and several others have approached High Court questioning the circular issued by BBMP directing that 60 per cent of the display of private and commercial establishments has to be in Kannada.
They have sought for quashing of the circular on the ground that it was invalid, ultra vires as per Karnataka Municipal Corporation Act, Article 14, 19 (1) (a), and 19 (i)(g) of Constitution of India and Trademarks Act. The Retailers Association of India and others have moved the court challenging the circular issued on July 22, 2017 directing that Kannada should be prominent in the name boards of all licensed retailers. The court has orally observed that BBMP should make efforts to promote the Kannada language in educational institutions. The court further orally observed that language is a reflection of our traditions, adding that if it wants to promote language it is not through the medium of name boards. The petitioners have contended that the notice also stated that the failure to comply with the circular will result in cancellation of the licence. The case stands adjourned.
