Edited by Deepali Verma
The wave of pro-Kannada protests left many investors stunned as it targeted many businesses in Bengaluru on December 27. The investors have voiced concerns about what they described as the “soft-handed” approach of the Karnataka government and the police to the issue.
The protests were initially planned as an online campaign by the Karnataka Rakshana Vedike but it transformed into a physical protest when more than 5,000 activists hit the streets bringing business activity to a standstill. Phoenix Mall of Asia in Hebbal and Phoenix Marketcity in Whitefield became prime targets and were left with no choice but to stop their operations for a day to ensure the safety of the visitors.
The Phoenix Mall of Asia put out a statement saying, “The Phoenix Mall of Asia assures its commitment in adhering to state rules and regulations by making use of Kannada signage at the mall’s premises. This strategic initiative not only marks the mall’s dedication to comply but also highlights the respect for the cultural context of the region. The inclusion of Kannada signage is a testament to our commitment to function within the legal framework and work with the local guidelines. The Phoenix Mall of Asia remains steadfast in upholding ethical business practices and regulatory compliances which further enhances the overall experience for our patrons. The Phoenix Mall of Asia is of the view that this approach not only contributes to the seamless operation of the mall but also fosters a deeper connection with the community they serve.”
The loss incurred has not been ascertained, an insider of the retail industry mentioned to The Indian Express that it could range in several crores of rupees given it is a peak business season. “We did not anticipate such attacks on businesses. If there was a protest, we expected that the police would provide sufficient security. However, what followed was disappointing as some of the shops’ name boards and other interiors were damaged while police watched as mute spectators,” the industry insider remarked.
In conversation with The Indian Express, Ramesh Chandra Lahoti, president of the Federation of Karnataka Chambers of Commerce and Industry, said, “It was truly unfortunate that the 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 Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike has put out a circular stating that all the commercial establishments in the city should have Kannada name boards by February 28, 2024.
Retail establishments that lacked the display of Kannada name boards prominently or not at all had to undergo losses in many parts including the central business district of Bengaluru. After the incident Gautam Jain, director (advocacy) of the Retailers Association of India, addressed a letter to Chief Secretary Rajneesh Goel stating, “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 fellow retailers have always been dedicated to honouring the local culture and made efforts to comply with Kannada signage on name boards.
In context of the rule mandating 60 per cent Kannada content on name boards, the association has requested the government to give industries time till February.
