Bengaluru Railway Exam Sparks Row: Kannada Exclusion Seen as Discriminatory Move

A fresh language controversy has erupted in Karnataka after the South Western Railway’s Bengaluru division excluded Kannada as a medium in a departmental promotion exam for Goods Train Manager posts. The exam was conducted only in Hindi and English, triggering sharp criticism from pro-Kannada organisations, activists, and political leaders.

While the Mysuru and Hubballi divisions offered candidates the option to write exams in Kannada, Hindi, and English, Bengaluru’s exclusion of the state’s official language has been branded discriminatory. Activists from the Karnataka Rakshana Vedike (KRV) have warned of strong protests if corrective action is not taken, calling the move a violation of official guidelines mandating regional language inclusion.

Political leaders have also questioned the rationale, asking: “Is Bengaluru not in Karnataka?” The issue has reignited debates about representation, equal opportunity, and respect for regional identity. Calls have been made to the Union Railway Minister to immediately restore Kannada as an exam option.

Key Highlights

Exam Controversy: Kannada excluded in Bengaluru division’s railway exam.

Divisional Contrast: Mysuru & Hubballi allowed Kannada, Hindi, English.

Protests: KRV and activists warn of agitation.

Political Reaction: Leaders demand inclusion, citing violation of guidelines.

Identity Issue: Exclusion seen as undermining Karnataka’s linguistic rights.

Why It Matters

The row underscores the sensitivity of language rights in Karnataka, highlighting the need for inclusive policies in national institutions to ensure fairness and cultural respect.

Sources: News18, The Hans India, NewsBytes