Karnataka Vidyavardhaka Sangha Demands Kannada Option for Railway Departmental Exams
In a significant move highlighting linguistic rights, the Karnataka Vidyavardhaka Sangha has formally urged the Railway Ministry to permit candidates to write departmental and promotional examinations in Kannada. The organization asserts that denying this option constitutes a grave injustice to Kannadigas working within the Indian Railways system.
Delegation Meets Union Minister, Submits Memorandum
A high-level delegation, led by Sangha president Chandrakant Bellad, recently met with Union Minister of State for Railways, V Somanna, in Hubballi. During the meeting, the delegation submitted a detailed memorandum outlining their concerns. The core argument presented was that the current absence of a Kannada language option for internal and promotional exams has created systemic discrimination against Kannada-speaking railway employees.
The sangha issued a stern warning, stating that if this perceived injustice towards regional language speakers is not corrected immediately, it would perpetuate ongoing discrimination, with Kannadigas being disproportionately affected.
Call for Immediate Corrective Action
The memorandum specifically sought clear and unambiguous orders from the Railway Ministry to permit Kannada as an additional language for these crucial career advancement examinations. The delegation emphasized the urgency of the situation, pressing the ministry to implement immediate corrective measures to ensure linguistic equity and fair opportunity for all employees.
Minister Assures Prompt Review and Action
In response to the representation, Union Minister V Somanna provided assurances to the delegation. He committed to having the issue examined at the earliest possible opportunity. Furthermore, Somanna promised that necessary steps would be taken to address the concerns raised by the Karnataka Vidyavardhaka Sangha, signaling a potential policy review on the matter of examination languages within the railways.
This development underscores the ongoing debate over linguistic rights in public sector employment and promotion systems across India.
