A state-wide bandh has been called in Karnataka today by Kannada Okkoota, a coalition of pro-Kannada organisations, in response to the alleged assault of a Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) bus conductor in Belagavi for not conversing in Marathi. The shutdown will last from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.
The incident, which occurred last month on a bus plying between Belagavi and Balekundri, has reignited longstanding linguistic tensions between Karnataka and Maharashtra. In the wake of the attack, inter-state bus services between the two states were suspended, exacerbating the dispute.
Over 50 protesters have been detained on Saturday who were raising slogans and attempting to start a rally.
Protesters arrived at the Town Hall in groups, but the police intervened, stopping them and taking them to Freedom Park, following orders from Bengaluru Police Commissioner B Dayananda.
On Friday, Dayananda had warned of strict action if any rallies disrupted the public. However, Vatal Nagaraj, who had called for the bandh, remained determined to lead a rally from Town Hall.
Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar stated that the state government would not support the bandh.
“We will make them (the organisations) understand that it is not the right course of action, as it will impact students whose exams have already begun,” he said.
Additional security forces have been deployed in Belagavi and other sensitive regions to prevent any untoward incidents.
Authorities have issued advisories to commuters, business owners, and students, cautioning them about possible disruptions to routine activities.
Historical context of the dispute
Belagavi has long been a point of contention between Karnataka and Maharashtra due to its substantial Marathi-speaking population. Post-independence, Maharashtra had laid claim to the region, leading to decades of linguistic and territorial disputes.
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The recent altercation has once again inflamed sentiments on both sides of the border.
The bandh organisers have demanded stringent action against pro-Marathi activists accused of inciting violence and disturbing communal harmony. They have also called for a ban on pro-Marathi organisations operating in the state.
What was open, What’s shut
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Public transport: KSRTC and Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) unions have extended support to the bandh, which may cause disruption in bus services. However, metro, railway, and airport services will function normally.
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Private transport: Ride-hailing services such as Ola and Uber, along with a section of rickshaw unions, have also backed the bandh, leading to possible commuting difficulties.
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Banking and education: Banks will remain closed as it is a Saturday. Some schools and colleges may observe a holiday, though no official directive has been issued.
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Businesses and entertainment: Restaurants, cinemas, and commercial establishments have offered symbolic support following appeals by pro-Kannada organisations. However, most are expected to operate as usual.
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Government and essential services: Government offices and all healthcare and essential services will function as normal.
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