In a landmark move, the Kerala Assembly has once again passed a resolution requesting the Union Government to officially change the state’s name from ‘Kerala’ to ‘Keralam’. This unanimous decision, spearheaded by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, underscores the state’s commitment to aligning its official nomenclature with its cultural and linguistic heritage.
The Significance of ‘Keralam’
In Malayalam, the native language of the state, ‘Keralam’ is the name that resonates deeply with its people. It is not just a name but a reflection of the state’s rich cultural and historical identity. The push to officially recognize ‘Keralam’ is rooted in a long-standing demand that dates back to the Indian freedom struggle, where there was a strong movement for a united Kerala for Malayalam speakers.
Legislative Journey
The current resolution is the second of its kind, following an earlier one passed nearly a year ago. The initial resolution was returned by the Union Home Ministry for technical corrections. The recent resolution aims to address these concerns and seeks to expedite the process of renaming the state under Article 3 of the Indian Constitution. This article grants Parliament the power to alter the name of any state, a power the Kerala Assembly hopes to invoke.
Chief Minister Vijayan articulated the need for this change, highlighting the incongruity between the state’s official name in the First Schedule of the Constitution and its traditional name in Malayalam. He emphasized the unity and cultural significance embodied in the name ‘Keralam’, advocating for its recognition in all languages listed in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution.
Political Consensus
The resolution saw robust support across the political spectrum, with members of both the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF) and the opposition United Democratic Front (UDF) backing it. Despite minor suggestions for amendments from UDF legislator N Shamsudeen, the resolution was passed without changes, demonstrating a rare moment of political unanimity.
Moving Forward
The resolution will now be forwarded to the Union Government for approval. If accepted, it will mark a significant step in the state’s journey towards reclaiming its cultural and linguistic identity. The move also sets a precedent for other states and regions in India that might seek similar changes to reflect their native languages and cultural heritage more accurately.
Conclusion
The Kerala Assembly’s resolution to rename the state to ‘Keralam’ is more than a bureaucratic exercise; it is a profound statement of cultural pride and identity. As the resolution awaits the Union Government’s approval, the people of Kerala stand united in their quest to see their state officially recognized by the name that has always resonated with their history, culture, and linguistic heritage.
This effort by Kerala is a testament to the enduring importance of cultural and linguistic identity in India’s diverse and pluralistic society. It is a reminder that the names of our states and cities are not just labels but embodiments of the rich tapestry of histories and cultures that define our nation.