BH24 Breaking News
The Lok Sabha has passed the Kerala (Alteration of Name) Bill, 2026, paving the way for the state to be officially renamed Keralam. The Bill was passed by voice vote amid protests and disruptions in Parliament.
Kerala Name Change Bill Gets Lok Sabha Nod
The Bill seeks to change the official name of Kerala to Keralam. The proposed name reflects the state’s name in Malayalam and follows a resolution passed by the Kerala Legislative Assembly in June 2024.
The Union Cabinet had approved the proposal in February 2026. The constitutional process was then moved forward for consideration by Parliament.
Bill Passed Amid Opposition Protests
The legislation was passed without a detailed debate as Opposition MPs continued protests in the Lok Sabha. The disruptions have affected proceedings during the ongoing Parliament session.
The Bill now moves to the Rajya Sabha for consideration. Union Home Minister Amit Shah is scheduled to move it in the Upper House.
Why Is Kerala Being Renamed Keralam?
The name Keralam is the Malayalam name used for the state. The Kerala Assembly argued that the official name should reflect the state’s linguistic and cultural identity.
The Assembly unanimously passed its resolution on June 24, 2024, asking the Centre to amend the First Schedule of the Constitution and change the state’s name from Kerala to Keralam.
What Happens Next?
Passing the Lok Sabha Bill does not by itself complete the name-change process. The Bill must clear the Rajya Sabha and complete the required constitutional procedure before the change becomes official.
If Parliament approves the legislation, Kerala will officially be known as Keralam in the Constitution and official records.
The development marks a major change in the official identity of one of India’s most prominent states.
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