Mysuru, Oct. 19 (BLU&BCT)- The Mysuru City Corporation (MCC) has issued a strict directive to all business establishments within its jurisdiction: Name boards must display at least 60 percent Kannada text at the top, while English may be used for the remaining 40 percent at the bottom, if necessary.

Announcing the order through an official release, MCC Commissioner Shaikh Tanveer Asif said, the directive is being enforced to ensure Kannada retains its rightful prominence in public spaces. Despite advisories issued in past, many businesses continue to violate and display name boards dominated by English. The Commissioner has now warned that non-compliance will attract serious consequences.

“If business owners fail to display 60 percent Kannada text on their name boards and do not ensure Kannada occupies the top position, their trade licenses will be revoked and establishments will be sealed,” MCC Commissioner Shaikh Tanveer Asif cautioned.

Tamil Nadu, Kerala lead by example

In Tamil Nadu — including its capital Chennai — public signage, name boards and milestones overwhelmingly feature Tamil, with almost no trace of other languages. Similarly, in Kerala, Malayalam dominates public spaces, reflecting deep-rooted linguistic pride.

Even among communities whose mother-tongue differs from official State language, citizens in both States largely communicate in Tamil or Malayalam, demonstrating a shared cultural commitment to linguistic identity.

In contrast, Karnataka has been witnessing a steady decline in Kannada visibility across urban centres. English dominates commercial signage, advertisements and even civic markers. In Bengaluru, the so-called Silicon City, Kannada is being overshadowed by English and other languages — a concern repeatedly raised by language advocates.

Hoteliers urge crackdown on illegal footpath vendors

The Mysuru Hotel Owners’ Association has welcomed the MCC’s directive mandating 60 percent Kannada usage on business name boards.

Association President C. Narayanagowda stated that hotels and commercial establishments must comply without delay, as the order aligns with Government policy and reflects the cultural responsibility to promote Kannada.

“Our traders must prioritise Kannada and support this initiative wholeheartedly. Updating name boards to reflect 60% Kannada is not just a legal requirement — it’s a matter of pride,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Association has urged MCC Commissioner Asif to take proactive steps to clear unauthorised footpath vendors across the city.

“Removing illegal vendors will ensure justice for licensed businesses who pay taxes and operate within the law. It will also enhance city’s appeal to tourists and help Mysuru earn its place as a model urban destination,” Narayanagowda added.

The Association emphasised that enforcing signage rules and clearing encroachments go hand in hand in strengthening civic order and linguistic pride.