Supreme Court Upholds Use of Urdu on Municipal Signboard, Embraces Linguistic Diversity
The Supreme Court dismissed an appeal challenging the display of Urdu alongside Marathi on a Maharashtra municipal signboard, affirming linguistic inclusivity. The Court emphasized that Urdu, a Scheduled language under the Constitution, can coexist with Marathi for effective public communication. Citing historical and cultural significance, the bench highlighted India’s multilingual ethos and rejected arguments under the Maharashtra Local Authorities (Official Languages) Act, 2022, noting no prohibition on additional languages. The ruling reinforces tolerance and unity in diversity, ending a prolonged legal battle.
MRS. VARSHATAI W/o. SH. SANJAY BAGADE
Versus
THE STATE OF MAHARASHTRA THROUGH ITS SECRETARY, MINISTRY OF LAW AND JUDICIARY, MANTRALAYA, MUMBAI AND ORS. ETC.