Karnataka Prepares for Statewide Bandh Over Linguistic Tensions in Belagavi

Pro-Kannada groups demand action against pro-Marathi organizations as the government opposes the bandh citing disruption to exams and public services.

The bandh, scheduled for March 22, 2025, from 6 AM to 6 PM, was called after an incident in Belagavi where a bus conductor was allegedly assaulted for not speaking Marathi.
Led by Kannada Okkuta and activist Vatal Nagaraj, the protest calls for a ban on Maharashtra Ekikarana Samiti and opposes the imposition of Hindi in Karnataka.
Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has criticized the bandh, warning it could disrupt SSLC exams and essential public services, and urged groups to reconsider.
Essential services, including hospitals, metro operations, and milk supply, will remain functional, while public transport, taxis, and cinemas are expected to shut down.
The bandh highlights the ongoing Karnataka-Maharashtra border dispute and broader issues of regional identity and linguistic tensions in the state.