Tensions Rise in Belagavi Over Language Dispute on State Transport Bus

A state transport bus conductor faced assault over a language dispute in Belagavi, bordering Maharashtra. The incident involved a passenger speaking Marathi and led to the arrest of four individuals. Meanwhile, the conductor faces allegations under the POCSO Act. Protests erupted, underscoring longstanding linguistic tensions.

Four individuals have been apprehended following an assault on a 51-year-old bus conductor, Mahadevappa Mallappa Hukkeri, who was attacked after a language dispute with a Marathi-speaking passenger, police reported on Saturday.

This incident unfolded near Belagavi, a city with a significant Marathi-speaking population, igniting tensions that led to subsequent protests by pro-Kannada activists. Meanwhile, the conductor has been accused under the POCSO Act, with further investigations ongoing.

The controversy has spotlighted existing linguistic tensions in the region, with calls for Belagavi's merger with Maharashtra being a longstanding issue. Authorities emphasize the need for peace as investigations continue.