The Belagavi city administration has transferred JM Kalimirchi, Circle Police Inspector (CPI) of Malmaruti Police Station, following a controversy that erupted during Kannada Rajyotsava celebrations. A photo showing him taking a selfie with Maharashtra Ekikaran Samiti (MES) leader Shubham Shelake went viral, prompting disciplinary action. The MES had declared the day a “Black Day” in protest of the linguistic-border issue.
What Happened
On November 1, MES activists marked Rajyotsava as “Black Day” in Belagavi, reiterating their long-standing demand for the merger of Belagavi and nearby Marathi-speaking regions with Maharashtra. While deployed for security duty at Sambhaji Park, CPI Kalimirchi was seen taking a selfie with Shelake. The image sparked anger among Kannada groups, who viewed it as the officer showing sympathy toward an anti-Kannada organisation.
Government Response
Reacting swiftly, Home Minister G. Parameshwara stated that any official undermining Karnataka’s dignity, language, or identity would face consequences. Following his remarks, the government transferred CPI Kalimirchi and appointed B.R. Gaddekar as the new Inspector of Malmaruti Police Station.
Context: The Border Dispute
The episode is linked to the ongoing Belagavi border dispute, where MES regularly demands the inclusion of Marathi-majority areas into Maharashtra. This year, the issue again took center stage during Rajyotsava through protests and counter-demonstrations over Kannada identity.
Why This Matters
In Belagavi, known for its mixed Kannada-Marathi culture, the actions of government officials are closely observed. The selfie, seen by many as a sign of bias, sparked criticism and led to the officer’s transfer. The incident also raises questions about police neutrality and the optics of public officials during politically sensitive events.
