Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has strongly opposed Kerala's proposed Malayalam Language Bill 2025, which mandates Malayalam as the compulsory first language in schools, including Kannada-medium institutions in border districts like Kasaragod. Siddaramaiah argues the bill infringes on linguistic freedom and the rights of minority Kannada speakers, calling it an imposition rather than promotion of Malayalam. He asserts that language is crucial for identity and opportunity for linguistic minorities. Kerala's government maintains the bill strengthens Malayalam while respecting constitutional provisions for minorities.