Traders approach KMC for clarity after Mayor orders mandatory use of Bengali on nameplates

In a move aimed at preserving and promoting the Bengali language, the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) has made it mandatory for all commercial establishments to display their nameplates in Bengali. Following an order by Mayor Firhad Hakim and a notification issued by Municipal Commissioner Dhabal Jain, businesses across the city are now seeking guidance to ensure compliance.

From shopping malls and jewelry stores to private hospitals and standalone shops, traders have started approaching the KMC to get clarity on various aspects of the directive. Key concerns include the correct spelling of business names in Bengali and the choice of fonts that are visually appealing and legible to customers.

Officials at the Municipal Commissioner’s office have been witnessing a steady stream of representatives from major private commercial setups. These representatives are filling out forms and requesting samples or suggestions on Bengali typography to maintain uniformity and attract customers without compromising aesthetics.

While the order mandates the use of Bengali, it does not specify a deadline for implementation. Mayor Firhad Hakim emphasized that the nameplates must clearly feature the Bengali language, even if other languages are also included. “People in Bengal know Bengali. So, it’s essential that everyone can read and understand nameplates,” he said.

Interestingly, the Mayor also pointed out that similar policies have long been in place in other Indian states. The aim is not to restrict business owners but to ensure that the state’s linguistic identity is upheld in the public and commercial spheres.

Though there has been no significant resistance, traders are being proactive in understanding the requirements, indicating widespread willingness to cooperate. The KMC has assured all business owners that it will provide full support during the transition period, especially in terms of design consultation and language accuracy.