Tensions Halt Cross-State Bus Services Amid Language Dispute

Bus services between Karnataka and Maharashtra have been suspended due to tensions over a language-related issue in Belagavi. Pro-Kannada activists staged demonstrations, protesting against attacks on buses. The issue escalated when a KSRTC bus conductor was allegedly assaulted for not speaking Marathi, prompting intervention by state officials.

Bus services between Karnataka and Maharashtra have been suspended following attacks on buses and their crew amid mounting tensions in Belagavi over language disputes. This was confirmed by a senior officer from the North West Karnataka Road Transport Corporation.

Protests by pro-Kannada activists were held, with prominent figures like T A Narayana Gowda and Praveen Shetty getting involved. Activists courted arrest as they opposed attacks on Kannadigas for not speaking Marathi. Their actions come on the heels of a KSRTC conductor being allegedly assaulted over language issues.

The Karnataka Transport Minister maintained that the situation was under control, highlighting coordinated efforts with Maharashtra to safeguard travelers. A minor's complaint, linked to a bus incident, has been retracted amid calls for peace between the states.