Madikeri: On February 21, International Mother Language Day, the Kodava National Council will organize a non-violent satyagraha in Madikeri. CNC President NU Nachappa confirmed the details in a press release.
The meeting will begin at 10:30 a.m. in front of the Deputy Commissioner’s office. A comprehensive petition will be submitted to the central and state governments, the United Nations and its bodies, pressing for Kodava Tak (language spoken in Kodagu) to be included in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution as per the Sitakant Mohapatra Committee report. The resolution will also call for recognition of Kodava Tak as an official language of the State under Article 345, on par with Konkani and the pending Tulu proposal.
Participants will also demand a dedicated “Code” and “Column” in the 2027 national census to document the Kodavas as an indigenous, mono-ethnic, nature-worshiping primordial tribe, with a unique identity, folklore and linguistic heritage.
Nachappa pointed out that only such constitutional record can protect the dignity and existence of Kodavas. He added that inclusion in the Eighth Schedule would confer official status, allowing Kodava Tak in administration, school curriculum and media, thereby preserving and propagating the language and culture.
For 36 years, CNC has peacefully campaigned for Kodava land’s geographical and political autonomy, self-governance, self-determination rights, ST categorization and UN indigenous tribe status. The organization traditionally celebrates International Mother Language Day with programs to reiterate demands and pass important resolutions.
This satyagraha will highlight the need for Eighth Schedule status, which would allow Kodava Tak instruction in schools, official use and visibility in the media. Nachappa noted that accurate census data remains an outstanding constitutional duty under Article 51A(e) and is essential for effective policymaking on community requirements.