A video shared on social media has started a new debate about which languages should be used in public places in India. The video said that Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) in Bengaluru has removed Hindi from its flight information display boards. This is happening at a time when there are already strong disagreements between the central government and southern states about the use of languages.

The video, posted on X (formerly Twitter), showed digital display boards at Terminal 1 of the Bengaluru airport. These boards showed flight numbers, destinations, gate numbers, and other details in only two languages – Kannada and English. The user wrote,
"Today, a surprise awaited at the T1 terminal of Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru. All the digital boards displaying flight information, flight arrival and departure schedules, and other information were only in English and Kannada."

The user also shared several short videos to show that Hindi was not being used on the boards.

Airport responds, saying no change was made

As the post went viral and sparked strong reactions, the Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL), which manages the airport, gave a clarification. A BIAL spokesperson said that the airport had not made any new changes to its display system.

"It was an established practice on digital screens to feature English and Kannada to effectively assist passengers," the BIAL spokesperson said.
They also added that other signboards across the airport still display directions and information in English, Kannada, and Hindi.

Debate over language use at public places returns

The video led to many mixed opinions on social media. One user called it a "really good development" and said that "Kannadigas were resisting Hindi imposition." Another user asked, "Only those who know English and Kannada visit Bengaluru?"

Some users supported using local languages but said removing Hindi entirely was not helpful. One comment read, "As much as I resist Hindi imposition, removing Hindi from travel hubs like airports and railway stations is stupidity."

The incident has again started a larger conversation about the need for multilingual signs in places like airports, train stations, and bus stands to help people from all parts of India.

 

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