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Why is Kerala Reintroducing the Malayalam Language Bill? Key Updates!

The Kerala government is preparing to reintroduce the Malayalam Language Bill with new amendments after President Droupadi Murmu declined approval. This bill aims to strengthen Malayalam as the state’s official language, impacting administration and education. Here’s what aspirants of SSC, PSC, UPSC, and other exams need to know.


What is the Malayalam Language Bill?
The Malayalam Language (Dissemination and Enrichment) Bill was first passed by the Kerala Legislative Assembly in 2015. Its primary objective was to establish Malayalam as the sole official language of the state, replacing the current dual-language system (Malayalam and English).


Key Provisions of the Bill:
Official Language Status: Malayalam would be mandatory in all government communications and administrative work.
Education Policy: Malayalam would become the first language in schools across Kerala.
Minority Languages: While Tamil and Kannada are recognized minority languages, the bill also included Tulu and Konkani, allowing speakers to use their language or English for official purposes.
However, the bill faced criticism for not adequately addressing linguistic minority rights and was later referred to the President, who withheld approval without specifying reasons.


Why is the Bill Being Reintroduced?
The Kerala government, led by Education Minister V. Sivankutty, is revisiting the bill with possible amendments. Advocacy groups like Aikya Malayala Prasthanam suggest withdrawing the current draft and introducing a more comprehensive version that balances language promotion with minority rights.


Sample Questions & Answers for Competitive Exams:
Q: What was the main objective of the Malayalam Language Bill?
A: To declare Malayalam as the sole official language of Kerala in administration and education.
Q: Why was the bill previously rejected by the President?
A: No specific reason was given, but concerns over linguistic minority rights may have played a role.
Q: Which languages were recognized as minorities in the original bill?
A: Tamil, Kannada, Tulu, and Konkani.
Q: What change does Aikya Malayala Prasthanam suggest for the bill?
A: Withdrawing the current version and drafting a new, more inclusive bill.
Q: How does the bill impact school education in Kerala?
A: It proposes making Malayalam the first language in schools.


Why is This Important for Exams?
PSC/KAS/UPSC: Questions on state language policies, constitutional provisions (Article 345), and minority rights are common.
SSC & Other Exams: Awareness of Kerala’s administrative reforms helps in general knowledge sections.
NID/NIFT: Cultural and regional language policies may be relevant for design and humanities-based exams.
Understanding this bill helps aspirants stay updated on current affairs and state governance, crucial for essay writing and interviews.

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