Bengaluru Shop Owner Faces Backlash for Allegedly Violating Kannada Signboard Rule

A Bengaluru-based handicraft store owner has sparked controversy after posting a video accusing a passerby of harassing her over the absence of 60 percent Kannada on her shop's nameboard. The video quickly went viral, drawing criticism from Kannada activists and netizens who pointed out the apparent violation of Kannada signage rule.

The incident comes in the wake of growing linguistic tensions in the city, where enforcement of Kannada signage rules has become a flashpoint in the wider debate over language identity and civic compliance.

What Does the Kannada Signboard Rule Say?

The Karnataka legislature passed the Kannada Language Comprehensive Development Act in February, mandating that all commercial establishments display at least 60% of their signage in Kannada. This rule applies across the state and is enforced by local bodies like the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP).

The objective is to promote the Kannada language and ensure its visibility in public spaces, particularly in cities like Bengaluru which host a large non-Kannada-speaking population.

Handicraft Store Video Goes Viral

The shop in question, named Sanchitaa's, showcases a signboard in English and Kannada with the tagline:"Happiness 100% Handmade, Celebrating Handlooms of India."

While there is Kannada text, it does not satisfy the 60% rule when considering text area and prominence as required by BBMP.

The absence of 60 percent of Kannada on the signboard led to a confrontation with an elderly man, who was captured in the video reminding the store owner that "60 percent should be in Kannada."

In the clip, Sanchita Seth, the shop owner, responds,"This is India, we are living here, you are nobody to tell me what I have to do."

She later uploaded the video to Instagram, writing,"Today I also faced discrimination in my own country. Not being Kannadiga. What the hell is wrong with these mental people."

The video has triggered a wave of criticism online. Many took to Google Reviews to leave negative feedback, accusing the owner of violating Kannada signage laws and showing disrespect toward local culture.

One user wrote,"You should change the name board because... 60 percent Kannada language is not there."

Another wrote,"Respect elders and Kannada wherever you live."

Several others labeled the shop owner's attitude as dismissive and urged authorities to take strict action.

A City Torn Between Identity and Inclusivity

Bengaluru, often described as a cosmopolitan melting pot, has long navigated linguistic tensions. From BBMP's signboard enforcement to clashes involving auto drivers and non-Kannada-speaking passengers, the use of language remains a sensitive topic.

While the store owner claims she was harassed, netizens argue that following Kannada signboard rules is a legal and cultural responsibility.

According to the BBMP, businesses that fail to comply with the 60% Kannada rule may face warnings, fines, or license suspension. However, no official complaint has yet been filed against Sanchitaa's as of this report.

The incident has reignited debates on whether Bengaluru is losing touch with its roots or adapting to its multicultural identity - all under the watchful eye of social media.