Bengaluru: Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Saturday accused the Centre of neglecting the Kannada language and imposing Hindi, urging people of the state to stand against those who are "anti-Kannada."

Speaking at the state’s foundation day (Rajyotsava Day) celebrations in Bengaluru, Siddaramaiah said, "The federal government is meting out step-motherly treatment to Karnataka."

He alleged that although Karnataka contributes significantly to the nation's economy, it does not receive its fair share in return. "The state provides Rs 4.5 lakh crore revenue to the Centre, but it is denied its rightful share and is given a paltry amount in return," Siddaramaiah said.

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Highlighting concerns about linguistic discrimination, he added, "There are continuous attempts to impose Hindi. Grants are given for the development of Hindi and Sanskrit while other languages of the country are being neglected."

He further said Karnataka is being denied funds crucial for its development. "Injustice is being done to the classical language Kannada by denying adequate funds for its growth. We have to oppose all those who are anti-Kannada," the chief minister asserted.

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Emphasising the importance of preserving and promoting Kannada, Siddaramaiah said the language’s neglect in the education system has created many challenges. "Children of the developed nations think, learn and dream in their mother tongue, but here the situation is against it. English and Hindi are weakening the talent of our children," he said.

He stressed the need for legislative action to strengthen regional language education. "Hence, there is a need to bring laws to introduce the mother tongue as the medium of instruction. I emphasise that the Centre should pay heed in this direction," Siddaramaiah added.