Renaming Kerala as Keralam

Source: Indian Express
GS II: Parliament and State Legislatures – structure, functioning, conduct of business, powers & privileges and issues arising out of these

Overview

1. News in Brief about Renaming Kerala as Keralam
2. How is a state in India being renamed?
3. History of Keralam

Why in News?

The resolution, moved by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, was passed unanimously, with the Congress-led Opposition not suggesting any changes.

News in Brief about Renaming Kerala as Keralam

• State of Kerala moving the resolution to Renaming Kerala as Keralam in Malayalam.
  • In Malayalam language it is Keralam while in other languages it is called Kerala.
• The need to form a united Kerala for the Malayalam-speaking communities had strongly emerged since the time of the national freedom struggle.
• The name of our state is written as Kerala in the First Schedule of the Constitution.
• Assembly unanimously requests the Union Government to take immediate steps to amend it as ‘Keralam’ under Article 3 of the Constitution and it be renaming Kerala as Keralam.

How is a state in India being renamed?

Renaming a state in India is a constitutionally regulated process that requires the involvement of both the state legislature and the Parliament. The procedure for renaming a state is outlined in Article 3 of the Constitution of India, along with relevant legislative actions.

Constitutional Provisions: Article 3 of the Indian Constitution empowers the Parliament of India to initiate the process of renaming states. It states that Parliament may, by law, alter the name of a state or make provisions with respect to the name of a state. However, the consent of the concerned state’s legislative assembly must be obtained before such a law is enacted.

Steps Involved

• Proposal and Resolution: The process typically begins with a proposal from the state government or a member of the Parliament,suggesting the renaming of a state. The proposal is usually accompanied by a resolution explaining the reasons behind the proposed change.
• State Legislative Assembly Consent: Before any legislative action is taken, the consent of the concerned state’s legislative assembly is essential. The state assembly debates the proposal and passes a resolution either in favor or against the renaming. This step ensures that the views and sentiments of the people of the state are considered.
• Introduction of a Bill: If the state assembly gives its consent, a bill seeking to alter the name of the state is introduced in either house of Parliament (Lok Sabha or Rajya Sabha). The bill goes through the standard legislative procedure, including readings, debates, and committee scrutiny.
• Parliamentary Approval: Both houses of Parliament must pass the bill by a simple majority. The bill’s provisions, including the proposed name change, are thoroughly discussed and debated to ensure comprehensive understanding and consensus.
• Presidential Assent: Once both houses of Parliament pass the bill, it is sent to the President of India for assent. The President’s assent is a formal step that signifies the final approval of the bill.
• Publication in the Gazette of India: After receiving the President’s assent, the changed name of the state is published in the Gazette of India. This official publication marks the completion of the renaming process.

Considerations and Sensitivities

• Renaming a state is a sensitive issue, as it involves cultural, historical, and emotional aspects.
• Therefore, it is essential for the authorities to ensure that the proposed name change is respectful and takes into account the sentiments of all stakeholders.
• Public consultations, historical significance, and the overall impact on the state’s identity are crucial considerations.
• The process aims to balance the need for administrative changes with the preservation of cultural and historical identities, ensuring that the sentiments of the people are duly respected and considered.

History of Keralam

Asoka’s Rock Edict II of 257 BC: Refers to the local ruler as Keralaputra which means in Sanskrit for son of Kerala, and also son of Chera referring to the Chera dynasty.

The history of Kerala, India is rich and diverse, spanning thousands of years. The region’s geographical location along the southwestern coast of the Indian subcontinent has facilitated cultural exchange, trade, and interactions with various civilizations over time. Here is an overview of the history of Kerala:

Ancient Period (Prehistoric to 3rd Century BCE):

• Archaeological evidence suggests that Kerala has been inhabited since the Paleolithic era.
• The ancient history of Kerala is intertwined with the Dravidian civilization.
• The region was known as Keralaputra in ancient texts.
• Trade relations existed with ancient Sumeria, Egypt, and the Roman Empire.
• Several dynasties and tribal groups had influence in the region.

Sangam Age (3rd Century BCE – 4th Century CE)

• This era saw the development of a unique Tamil culture in Kerala, closely connected to the Tamil Sangam literature.
• The Chera dynasty played a prominent role during this period, ruling over a significant portion of the region.
• Trade, especially in spices like black pepper, made Kerala an important center for maritime trade.

Medieval Period (8th Century – 18th Century)

Kerala’s history during the medieval period is characterized by the emergence of several powerful kingdoms and the arrival of foreign powers due to its strategic coastal location.

• Cholas and Cheras: The Chola dynasty’s influence expanded into Kerala during the medieval period, leading to political and cultural interactions. The Chera dynasty continued to be relevant as well.
• Zamorin of Calicut: The Zamorin, or Samoothiri, of Calicut (Kozhikode) emerged as a significant power in the region and established trade connections with the Arab world and Europe. Vasco da Gama’s arrival in 1498 marked the beginning of European colonial interests in Kerala.
• European Colonialism: The Portuguese, Dutch, and British all established their presence in Kerala, primarily for trade in spices. The Portuguese were the first to arrive, followed by the Dutch and then the British. These colonial powers exerted influence over various parts of Kerala.

Modern Period (19th Century – Present): The 19th century saw significant social and political changes in Kerala.

• British Colonial Rule: The British East India Company gradually took control over Kerala, integrating it into British India. Social reforms, such as the abolition of the caste-based “Sati” practice, were introduced.
• Formation of Modern Kerala State: After India gained independence in 1947, the princely states in Kerala were merged to form the state of Travancore-Cochin. In 1956, linguistic reorganization led to the formation of the present-day Kerala state.
• Social and Political Movements: Kerala witnessed various social reform movements, including movements against untouchability and for education reform. The state also saw the rise of political movements advocating for land reforms and better working conditions for laborers.
• Economic and Social Development: Kerala has achieved notable progress in various social indicators, including literacy and healthcare. The state’s emphasis on education and social welfare has contributed to its Human Development Index (HDI) ranking higher than many other Indian states.

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