Kerala's name to be changed to 'Keralam' under new bill

It also updates the Constitution and existing laws to reflect this new name.

Who it concerns: The State of Kerala (which will become Keralam), the Central Government, the State Government, courts, tribunals, and any legal entities or individuals involved in proceedings with the State.

What the bill does

• The name of the State of Kerala is changed to 'Keralam' on a date appointed by the Central Government.
• Specific references to 'Kerala' in Article 31A, Article 290A, the First Schedule, and the Fourth Schedule of the Constitution are replaced with 'Keralam'.
• The appropriate Government (Central or State) has one year from the appointed day to adapt or modify existing laws to reflect the name change.
• Courts and tribunals are empowered to interpret existing laws to accommodate the name change if no specific adaptation has been made.
• Any legal proceedings pending against the State of Kerala are automatically deemed to be against the State of Keralam.

Also in the document

• This is a Constitutional amendment requiring changes to multiple parts of the Indian Constitution.
• The President recommended the Bill for introduction in Lok Sabha under Article 3 of the Constitution.
• The Legislative Assembly of Kerala passed a resolution on 24th June 2024 requesting the name change.
• The Legislative Assembly of Kerala unanimously agreed with the Bill after it was referred by the President.