Maharashtra Considers Security Deployment on Karnataka-Bound Buses Amid Border Tensions
The longstanding Maharashtra-Karnataka border dispute has intensified following recent violent incidents targeting state transport personnel. In response, Maharashtra is considering deploying security marshals or police officers on its buses traveling to Karnataka to ensure passenger safety.
Recent Incidents Fueling Tensions
On February 21, a conductor of a Karnataka state transport bus was allegedly assaulted in Belagavi for not responding to a passenger in Marathi. The altercation began when a 17-year-old girl and her companion demanded the conductor speak Marathi. When he expressed his inability to do so, tensions escalated, leading to his assault by a gathered crowd. Four people, including the girl, were detained.
In a retaliatory act, activists attacked a Maharashtra state transport bus and its driver in Chitradurga, Karnataka. These incidents have led to the suspension of bus services between the two states, significantly impacting daily commuters and further escalating tensions.
Maharashtra’s Response to Ensure Passenger Safety
Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik addressed the situation, stating, “As a Transport Minister, I have to think about the safety of my passengers. If there are some anti-social elements, then we have to think about deploying security marshals or police personnel in our government buses going to Karnataka. Marathi is our pride and we need to look after the security of our passengers, and this issue will also be discussed in the state cabinet meeting. Maharashtra has its own pride and if people of the neighboring state threaten the people of Maharashtra, it will not be tolerated.”
Minister of State for Home, Yogesh Kadam, emphasized that it is the responsibility of the Karnataka government to ensure the safety of passengers. He added that if Karnataka fails to provide adequate security, Maharashtra will take necessary measures to protect its citizens.
Historical Context of the Dispute
The Maharashtra-Karnataka border dispute centers around the Belagavi district, which has a significant Marathi-speaking population. The contention dates back to the linguistic reorganization of states in 1956, with both states claiming rights over the region. Despite various commissions and legal interventions, the dispute remains unresolved, periodically leading to tensions and incidents like the recent assaults.
Impact on Public Transportation and Commuters
The suspension of bus services has disrupted the daily lives of commuters who rely on interstate transportation for work and personal reasons. Both governments are under pressure to resolve the situation promptly to restore normalcy and ensure the safety of passengers traveling between the two states.
As discussions continue, the deployment of security personnel on interstate buses is being considered a necessary step to prevent further incidents and protect passengers amidst the ongoing border dispute.
