Several pro-Kannada groups have declared a 12-hour bandh across Karnataka on Saturday, March 22, from 6 am to 6 pm. The protest comes in response to an alleged assault on a KSRTC bus conductor in Belagavi, reportedly attacked for not speaking Marathi—a move that has stirred up longstanding linguistic tensions in the region.
Karnataka’s deputy chief minister, D K Shivakumar, stated that the state government, led by Siddaramaiah, would not support the bandh. He emphasized that the decision would adversely affect students whose exams have already begun.
In light of the situation, additional security is being deployed in Belgavi and other sensitive areas. Authorities have warned that the protest could disrupt the daily routines of commuters, business owners, and students.
What led to the Karnataka Bandh?
Last month, a KSRTC bus conductor traveling from Belagavi to Balekundri was reportedly attacked by members of pro-Marathi groups for not speaking Marathi. The incident led to the suspension of inter-state bus services between Maharashtra and Karnataka and reignited debates over historical language disputes. After independence, Maharashtra had laid claim to Belagavi—now part of Karnataka—due to its significant Marathi-speaking population, a point of contention that has persisted along the state border.
A coalition known as Kannada Okkuta has organized the bandh, demanding strict action against the pro-Marathi activists accused of inciting violence and disrupting communal harmony. The coalition is also calling for a ban on these pro-Marathi groups.
Karnataka bandh: What’s open, what’s closed?
- Bus Services: KSRTC and BMTC have indicated that the bandh may affect bus operations statewide.
- Ride-Sharing (Uber, Ola) and Rickshaws: Services like Ola and Uber, along with some rickshaw unions, support the protest, potentially leading to disruptions. However, metro, railway, and airport services will continue to run as usual.
- Banks and Educational Institutions: Banks will be closed as it is Saturday, and some schools and colleges might observe holidays, although no official announcements have been made.
- Restaurants and Cinemas: Many eateries and cinemas have shown symbolic support for the protest, but they are expected to remain open.
- Government Offices and Essential Services: All government offices and facilities providing healthcare and other essential services will remain operational.
The bandh underscores deep-rooted linguistic disputes and regional politics, highlighting ongoing challenges in balancing cultural identity and public order in Karnataka.