For the second consecutive day, interstate bus services between Maharashtra and Karnataka remained suspended due to ongoing protests stemming from a language dispute in the border district of Belagavi. The unrest has led to significant disruptions in transportation and heightened tensions between the two states.
The Belagavi division of Karnataka’s state transport department, which typically operates around 120 buses daily from regions such as Nippani, Chikkodi, and Athani, has halted services to Maharashtra since Saturday afternoon. Divisional controller Rajesh Potdar explained that the decision was made in response to the “volatile situation” in the area. To mitigate passenger inconvenience, buses are currently operating only up to the state border, where commuters can transfer to Maharashtra state buses to continue their journeys.
In a parallel move, Maharashtra’s transport minister, Pratap Sarnaik, ordered the suspension of state transport buses to Karnataka on Saturday. This directive followed an incident in which Bhaskar Jadhav, a driver for the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC), was allegedly attacked, and his face blackened by unidentified individuals.
The suspension has also affected private bus operations between the two states. According to the vice chairman of the Mumbai Bus Malak Sangathana, approximately 250 MSRTC and 500 private bus services have been halted due to concerns over escalating tensions in the border areas. Both state governments are closely monitoring the law and order situation before making decisions about resuming public transportation services. A senior official from the Maharashtra government, speaking on condition of anonymity, indicated that the current suspension would remain in place for the coming days until a thorough assessment is conducted.
The recent unrest traces back to an incident on Friday involving a language dispute in Belagavi. A bus conductor, Mahadevappa Mallappa Hukkeri, aged 51, alleged that he was assaulted for not conversing in Marathi. The altercation began when a 17-year-old girl and her male companion boarded a state-owned transport bus at Sulebhavi village. Hukkeri claimed that upon requesting the girl to speak in Kannada, she verbally abused him, insisting he should learn Marathi. The situation escalated when a crowd gathered and allegedly assaulted the conductor.
In response to the incident, authorities apprehended the minor, her friend, and two others on Friday night. Additionally, another individual was arrested on Sunday in connection with the case. The minor has filed a counter-complaint at the Marihal police station, accusing the bus conductor of misconduct. Hukkeri, currently receiving treatment at the Belagavi Institute of Medical Sciences (BIMS), has refuted these allegations.
The Belagavi border dispute has deep historical roots, primarily centered around linguistic and territorial disagreements. Belagavi, formerly known as Belgaum, has been a contentious area since the reorganization of states along linguistic lines in 1956. Maharashtra has laid claim to Belagavi, citing a significant Marathi-speaking population, while Karnataka maintains administrative control over the region. This longstanding dispute has periodically ignited tensions, leading to protests and disruptions.
In December 2022, the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly passed a unanimous resolution asserting its claim over Belagavi and other Marathi-speaking areas currently within Karnataka’s borders. The resolution emphasized the state’s commitment to pursuing legal avenues to incorporate these regions into Maharashtra. This political stance has further strained relations between the two states, contributing to the current climate of unrest.
The suspension of bus services has had a profound impact on daily commuters, traders, and businesses that rely on seamless interstate connectivity. The disruption has not only affected travel but has also hindered economic activities in the border regions. Local businesses have reported decreased patronage, and commuters have expressed frustration over the lack of reliable transportation options.
Community leaders and activists have called for calm and dialogue to resolve the escalating tensions. There is a growing consensus that open communication and mutual respect are essential to address the underlying issues fueling the dispute. Efforts are underway to facilitate discussions between stakeholders from both states to find an amicable solution that honors the cultural and linguistic identities of the affected communities.
As the situation develops, the central government has urged both Maharashtra and Karnataka to exercise restraint and work collaboratively towards a peaceful resolution. The Ministry of Home Affairs has offered to mediate discussions and provide support to de-escalate the situation. There is hope that with concerted efforts from all parties involved, normalcy can be restored, and interstate relations can be strengthened.
In the interim, travelers are advised to stay informed about the status of transportation services and consider alternative arrangements where possible. Authorities have increased security measures in sensitive areas to prevent further incidents and ensure the safety of residents and commuters. The emphasis remains on maintaining peace and order while addressing the complex issues at the heart of the dispute.
The Belagavi border dispute serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges inherent in managing linguistic and cultural diversity within a federal structure. It underscores the necessity for continuous dialogue, empathy, and a commitment to unity amidst diversity. As both states navigate this delicate situation, the broader goal remains the preservation of harmony and the well-being of all affected communities.
