Kannada activists vandalize Bengaluru shops over language signage rule controversy
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Members of the Karnataka Rakshana Vedike group held violent protests across Bengaluru, damaging English signboards of shops to push for greater use of Kannada language.
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The protesters want implementation of a rule requiring 60% of signboards and nameplates to be in Kannada.
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Videos circulated online show men in Kannada colors tearing down English signs of hotels, salons, and an Airtel store.
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The BBMP has ordered all Bengaluru businesses to have 60% Kannada signage by February 28 to avoid legal action.
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This comes amid a renewed focus on promoting Kannada in the state, with CM Siddaramaiah saying recently that everyone living in Karnataka should learn the language.