After SBI, another Kannada row erupts after Bengaluru Canara Bank staff member fails to speak in local language

After the SBI case, Canara Bank is under fire in Bengaluru after an alleged video of the bank's branch in Karnataka’s Chikkamagaluru went viral where a Kannada-speaking woman was seen confronting a bank staffer who she claims was unable to assist her in Kannada.

The staff member, reportedly a Malayalam speaker, was questioned for not knowing the local language. “Why is she here if she can’t understand Kannada?” the woman can be heard asking in the video. The incident reportedly occurred after money was deducted from the woman’s account without prior notification.

Previously, a major controversy erupted after a SBI Branch Manager was transferred for refusing to converse with a customer in Kannada. The Kannada language issue in Bengaluru has become a flashpoint in recent months. With the rise of workers to Bengaluru from various states over the years, there have been growing concerns among locals about the perceived erosion of the language in public life.


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What did Canara Bank say?
Following the backlash, the bank said "Kannada is our foundation, your support is our strength. For Canara Bank, Karnataka is not just a state — it is our birthplace, the very first foundation of our journey that began over a hundred years ago."

"Kannada is not merely a language to us — it is a feeling, a pride. We continue to nurture this heritage with respect in every branch. We are committed to providing services in the local language at every branch in the state. In today’s multilingual India, our staff may come from different states — but our heart always resonates with our customers," said Canara Bank.

"We have always been at the forefront of giving Kannada its rightful place in service and connection. Dear customers and friends, let us preserve our unity and mutual respect for Kannada. Let a few isolated incidents not tarnish our 120-year legacy of trust. Canara Bank – your bank, your language, your pride," added the bank.