Karnataka Bandh today: Pro-Kannada groups protest in Belagavi over language dispute
Karnataka Bandh today: Karnataka is witnessing a 12-hour bandh today, March 22, organised by various pro-Kannada groups in response to the alleged assault on a Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) bus conductor in Belagavi. The shutdown, which began at 6 am and will last until 6 pm, is a protest against the rising tensions over linguistic differences in the region.
Reason behind Karnataka Bandh
The bandh was triggered by an incident last month when a KSRTC conductor operating a bus between Belagavi and Balekundri was reportedly attacked by members of a pro-Marathi organisation for not speaking Marathi. This attack intensified the ongoing language dispute between Karnataka and Maharashtra.
The conflict over Belagavi has historical roots. Following India’s independence, Maharashtra laid claim to Belagavi due to its large Marathi-speaking population, leading to a long-standing linguistic and territorial disagreement between the two states. The recent assault has further intensified these tensions, prompting Kannada advocacy groups to demand strict action against those responsible.
A coalition of pro-Kannada organisations, under the banner of Kannada Okkuta, has called for the bandh, urging the Karnataka government to ban pro-Marathi organisations that they accuse of disturbing communal harmony.
Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar stated on Thursday that the state government does not support the bandh, emphasising that it could disrupt students’ SSLC exams. "We will engage with these organisations to explain that calling a bandh is not the right approach," he said.
Despite the government’s opposition, several transport unions and businesses have extended symbolic support to the protest.
Impact of Karnataka Bandh: What’s open and closed?
The bandh is expected to impact public transport and daily activities in various parts of the state, particularly in Belagavi and other sensitive areas. Here’s a look at what services will be affected:
Bus Services: KSRTC and Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) unions have backed the bandh, leading to possible disruptions in bus operations.
Cabs & auto-rickshaws: Some Ola, Uber, and auto-rickshaw unions have also joined the protest, which could make commuting difficult. However, metro services, railways, and airport operations remain unaffected.
Banks & schools: Banks will remain closed as it is a Saturday, while some schools and colleges may also remain shut, although no official announcement has been made.
Businesses & eateries: Restaurants and movie theaters have expressed symbolic support for the bandh but are expected to remain open.
Government offices & essential services: All government offices will function as usual, and essential services, including hospitals, will continue operating without disruption.
Additional security forces have been deployed in Belagavi and other areas prone to tension.
- With inputs from agencies
