Karnataka mulls official recognition for yellow and red Kannada flag

The Karnataka government is actively considering granting official state flag status to the yellow and red Kannada flag, Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar announced on Sunday. Speaking at the 71st Kannada Rajyotsava celebrations in Bengaluru, Shivakumar stated that the administration intends to introduce a legal framework to formalise the display.

The move marks a significant step towards institutionalising regional identity symbols within India's federal structure. Shivakumar hoisted both the national Tricolour and the Kannada flag at the event, noting that the government aims to ensure the regional banner flies alongside the national flag on official buildings.

Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister confirmed that the proposal will be placed before the state cabinet and tabled for detailed discussion during the upcoming winter session of the legislature in Belagavi. The legislative session is scheduled to commence on November 30.

The government also plans to issue formal orders enabling private institutions across the state to fly the Kannada flag. Additionally, authorities are examining proposals to make the hoisting of the flag mandatory in institutions that receive state financial support.

Recalling past administrative efforts, Shivakumar noted that the state cabinet had previously passed resolutions and submitted formal requests to the Union government for formal approval, though those petitions did not secure recognition at the time. The current initiative centers on the plain yellow and red design that has long served as a popular symbol of regional culture and sentiment.

Proponents of the measure argue it will parallel the official status granted to the state anthem, the Naadageethe, reinforcing cultural pride. The legal framework under preparation is expected to outline specific protocols for hoisting the banner while maintaining alignment with national flag regulations.

Further clarity on the administrative rollout and legal parameters is expected when legislators convene at the Suvarna Soudha in Belagavi for the winter session. The cabinet will finalise its formal resolution following legislative debates.