State to pursue official recognition for Kannada flag, language: CM

Chief minister D.K. Shivakumar, along with former CMs Veerappa Moily and Siddaramaiah, releasing a book, in Mysuru on Wednesday.

Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Wednesday said the State government was committed to securing official recognition for the Kannada language and the Kannada flag.

He said former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah had earlier brought the issue of official recognition for the Kannada flag to the attention of the Union government. The State government would discuss the matter during the next session of the legislature and take steps towards enacting the necessary legislation, he added.

“There is no constitutional restriction on this. Our government is committed to securing a distinct identity and recognition for the Kannada language and flag,” he said.

Mr. Shivakumar was speaking after releasing the fourth volume of former Chief Minister and noted writer M. Veerappa Moily’s literary work Vishwasamskritiya Mahayana (Gadya Mahakavya) here.

Recalling his own interest in literature, Mr. Shivakumar said he had written a book titled Neerina Hejje, based on his experiences as Irrigation Minister. He had also prepared another book on Mahatma Gandhi’s 100-year legacy and the Gandhi Bharata programme held in Belagavi, which would be released at an appropriate time.

He recalled being inspired by a nearly 55-minute literary speech delivered by former Chief Minister J.H. Patel at the Kannada Sahitya Sammelana in Kanakapura and said he had requested Mr. Patel’s son, Mahima Patel, to publish it as a book.

Praising Shivarathri Deshikendra Swami of Suttur seer for encouraging writers and inspiring the publication of several books, Mr. Shivakumar said literature, spiritual thought and cultural preservation were essential for building a humane society. “The pen is mightier than the sword. Literature has the power to change society,” he said.