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Politics
Tulu declared Karnataka's second official language, reshaping state politics
✍️ The Indian Express
🗓 24 Sep 2026, 06:31 AM
👁 10
The Karnataka government has officially recognized Tulu as the state's second language, a step likely to affect political calculations ahead of upcoming elections.
The state cabinet approved a resolution to add Tulu to the list of official languages, joining Kannada as the primary medium of administration. The decision follows a long‑standing demand by Tulu‑speaking communities in the coastal districts of Dakshina Kannada and Udupi.
Political analysts say the move could bolster the regional appeal of parties that have traditionally courted the Tulu electorate, especially as the next assembly polls approach. By granting official status, the government aims to address cultural aspirations while potentially reshaping vote banks in the coastal belt.
Opposition leaders welcomed the gesture but cautioned that language recognition must be accompanied by concrete development initiatives for the region. The administration has pledged to introduce Tulu in government offices and schools, though implementation details remain under discussion.
Political analysts say the move could bolster the regional appeal of parties that have traditionally courted the Tulu electorate, especially as the next assembly polls approach. By granting official status, the government aims to address cultural aspirations while potentially reshaping vote banks in the coastal belt.
Opposition leaders welcomed the gesture but cautioned that language recognition must be accompanied by concrete development initiatives for the region. The administration has pledged to introduce Tulu in government offices and schools, though implementation details remain under discussion.