KOCHI: Giving a push to Malayalam language, which was bestowed the classical language status in 2013, the Personnel and Administrative Reforms (Official Language) Department has come out with a guideline directing the Secretariat, government/quasi government/autonomous institutions and corporations to make Malayalam their official medium of communication. The decision came following a high-level meeting chaired by the Chief Minister on November 11.
The meeting observed that the approach of various institutions towards Malayalam has not been been promising, and directed heads of the institutions to ensure that Malayalam is given the importance it deserves. The meet also demanded strong action against those who violate directives listed under the Kerala Official Languages Act - 1969. Palod Ravi MLA, who is chairman of the Legislative Committee for Official Language, told ‘Express’ that committed efforts were lacking from the part of the government for preparing a comprehensive law for Malayalam.
“Without a comprehensive law, how can you persuade educational institutions to make Malayalam part of their curriculum? It will not have legal sanctity when questioned in court. In spite of coming out with a draft Malayalam Language Bill, some ministers have raised questions over its practicality. If things go like this, Malayalam would soon become extinct,” said Palod Ravi.
It has also been found that the Legislative Committee’s fourth report, which was tabled in the Assembly on July 29, on the need to formulate a ‘State Song’ and a protocol to play the same is yet to be considered by the government. “ The song will have to reflect the heritage, cultural and historical aspects of the State. But, the government is yet to act upon the report,” added Ravi.