Bus conductor assaulted in Belagavi
Belagavi: A shocking incident of violence over a language dispute has surfaced in Karnataka’s Belagavi district. A North Western Karnataka Road Transport Corporation (NWKRTC) bus conductor and driver were assaulted by a group of individuals at Balekundri (KH) village, about 16 km from the city.
For more details ; https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/hubballi/bus-conductor-driver-assaulted-over-language-issue-in-karnataka-told-to-learn-marathi/articleshow/118467618.cms
Argument Over Language Turns Violent
According to the complaint filed at Marihal police station, conductor Mahadev Hukkeri stated that a young girl traveling on the bus insisted he speak in Marathi. When he informed her that he didn’t know Marathi, an argument broke out. The girl reportedly asked him to learn the language, and a boy accompanying her also joined the dispute, issuing threats.
Upon reaching Balekundri, around 20 people allegedly boarded the bus and brutally assaulted both the conductor and driver Rajesab Momin, demanding they learn Marathi.
Viral Video Sparks Outrage
A video of the assault has since gone viral on social media, triggering anger among Kannada organizations. Many have demanded the immediate arrest of the attackers and strict legal action.
Police Take Action, Three Arrested
Rohan Jagadish, DCP (Law and Order), confirmed the incident and assured a thorough investigation. Based on the complaint, police arrested three accused:
- Maruti Turmuri
- Balu Gojgekar
- Rahul Naidu
Authorities have assured that law and order will be maintained, and further investigations are underway.
Language Tensions in Karnataka
Belagavi, a border city with a history of linguistic disputes, has witnessed tensions between Kannada and Marathi speakers. This incident adds to the ongoing debate over language and identity in the region.
Read also : Belagavi MP Jagadish Shettar Proposes Cold Storage Facility to Union Minister Piyush Goyal
