Kerala Renaming under Article 3 – Constitutional Process and First Schedule Amendment

Context

The Union Cabinet approved the Kerala government’s proposal to rename the State from “Kerala” to “Keralam”, reflecting the Malayalam pronunciation. (Page 2)

Constitutional Process (Article 3)

1. President Refers Bill to State Legislature
   Under Article 3 proviso, the President sends the Alteration of Name Bill to the concerned State Legislature for its views.
   
2. State Legislature Gives Views
   • Legislature expresses opinion within specified time.
   • Its opinion is not binding on Parliament.
3. Presidential Recommendation
   Mandatory before introducing an Article 3 Bill in Parliament.
   
4. Passage in Parliament
   Passed by simple majority.
   
5. Amendment of First Schedule
   Since state names are listed in the First Schedule, the entry is amended to “Keralam”.
   

President’s Assent
After assent → Name becomes official.