The Karnataka High Court has sought the State government’s response to a petition questioning its decision to allow engineers to use the prefix ‘Er’ before their names, with the petitioner alleging that the move unfairly privileges one profession over others.
Justice CM Poonacha issued notice on October 9 in the case, Beerappa N v State of Karnataka. The matter is scheduled for its next hearing on November 16.
The controversy stems from a government order issued on September 15, 2026, permitting engineers in Karnataka to adopt the honorific ‘Er’.
The petition challenges both the rationale behind the decision and the government’s authority to confer such a professional title. It argues that the order does not provide a clear or reasonable explanation for extending the distinction to engineers alone.
According to the petitioner, the decision raises concerns under Article 14 of the Constitution, which guarantees equality before the law and equal protection of the laws.
The plea contends that granting an honorific to members of one profession risks creating an artificial hierarchy among different occupational groups. It further argues that the State’s decision is arbitrary because it extends a distinction to engineers without establishing a consistent principle for treating other professions.
The petitioner has also claimed that the decision undermines the standing and dignity associated with his own profession, arguing that the government’s approach places engineers in a position of distinction over other professional groups.
The High Court will consider the challenge after receiving the State government’s response.
Advocate Trivikram SS appeared for the petitioner.