‘Is living in peace too much to ask for’: Traders raise questions about ‘Brand Bengaluru’ after pro-Kannada vandalism

The Phoenix Mall of Asia said in a statement, “The Phoenix Mall of Asia reaffirms its commitment to adherence to state rules and regulations by incorporating Kannada signage at the mall’s premises. This strategic initiative not only underscores the mall’s dedication to comply but also reflects the respect for the cultural context of the region. The inclusion of Kannada signage is a testament to our commitment to operate within the legal framework and align with local guidelines. The Phoenix Mall of Asia remains steadfast in upholding ethical business practices and regulatory compliances, further enhancing the overall experience for our patrons. The Phoenix Mall of Asia believes that this approach not only contributes to the seamless operation of the mall but also fosters a deeper connection with the community they serve.”

Although the loss incurred due to the protest has not been ascertained, an insider of the retail industry told The Indian Express that it could run into several crores of rupees as it was a business season. “We did not expect such attacks on businesses. Even if there was a protest, we anticipated that police would provide enough security. But what happened later was disappointing. Some of the shops’ name boards and other interiors were vandalised while police watched as mute spectators,” the industry insider said.

Speaking to The Indian Express, Ramesh Chandra Lahoti, president of the Federation of Karnataka Chambers of Commerce and Industry, said, “It was really unfortunate that police could not protect businesses. Bengaluru is a globally noted city. We are speaking about ‘Brand Bengaluru’ and if the government doesn’t act against such attacks, how can we even promote it?” he said.

“The government has set the rules and given a deadline till February 28, 2024. We have urged all business establishments to abide by that. But that doesn’t allow anyone to take law into their own hands,” he added.

The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike has issued a circular stating that all the commercial establishments in the city must have Kannada name boards by February 28, 2024.

Retail establishments either not sporting Kannada name boards prominently or not at all suffered losses in many parts including the central business district of Bengaluru. Soon after the incident Gautam Jain, director (advocacy) of the Retailers Association of India, said in a letter to Chief Secretary Rajneesh Goel, “While we fully acknowledge and respect the cultural sentiments of Karnataka and importance of promoting the Kannada language, we would like to highlight that our member retailers have always been committed to honouring local culture and made efforts to comply with Kannada signage on name boards.”

With regard to the rule mandating 60 per cent Kannada content on name boards, the association has requested the government to give industries time till February.

Abhishek Agarwal, who runs a consultancy which is into building artificial intelligence tools, said he had shifted his AI consulting firm from Pune to Bengaluru because of regional chauvinism in the city in Maharashtra. “We’re a team of 70 people now and, as a company, pay our fair share of taxes to the Karnataka government. Our team comes from all parts of India and calls Bangalore their home. We also contribute in our own individual capacity to the development of the city by spending and taxation,” he said.

“I know a few Kannada words but rarely use them in my day-to-day life. The only languages I know are English, Hindi and Odia. I don’t mind learning Kannada but definitely wouldn’t learn if I’m forced. I’d rather contemplate moving elsewhere if this unabated hooliganism continues. We’re already tolerating terrible traffic, sh*tty infra and unclean neighbourhoods. Is living in peace too much to ask for?” he said.

Former Infosys board member Mohandas Pai wrote on X, “@CPBlr @siddaramaiah @CMofKarnataka @DKShivakumar How can police not stop such violence and vandalism? @kiranshaw @rk_misra @krishnabgowda @kris_sg Why is our Minister for Bengaluru @DKShivakumar on whom we have high hopes quiet? We need confidence boosting measures from govt.”

Biocon chief Kiran Mazumdar Shaw posted, “This soft handed approach by Police is very troubling. These are professional paid vandals – it’s so obvious. @DKShivakumar please take action and keep our city safe @BPACofficial.”

Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar said, “Everyone can protest in a democracy but we will not tolerate anyone taking the law into their hands. I am very much disturbed that they have vandalised many boards and shops. They can use black flags, raise slogans and ask the government to implement the order.”

For his part, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said on Thursday, “Kannada is supreme in Karnataka. But if someone goes against the law, the government will not tolerate it.”

Speaking after chairing a meeting about the implementation of the 60 per cent-Kannada rule for signage, he said, “According to the circular (dated 24 March 2018 ), it is 60 per cent in Kannada and 40 per cent in other languages. However, when the bylaw was amended, it became 50-50. So in the meeting it has been decided to modify it to 60-40 per cent, and I have directed officials to bring in an ordinance. All commercial establishments will have to abide by February 28, 2024, and I think I have made myself very clear.”