The ongoing border row has intensified tensions in Karnataka as the BJP condemned any efforts to insult Kannada and the state, calling it “unpardonable.” State BJP president B.Y. Vijayendra emphasized that those benefiting from the state but disrespecting Kannada and Karnataka must be held accountable.
“Insulting Kannada and Karnataka within the state is a serious offense. I support the statements of pro-Kannada organizations, and we Kannadigas must raise our voices against such aggression,” Vijayendra said, responding to the recent attack on a KSRTC bus driver and conductor in Belagavi, allegedly due to their failure to speak in Marathi. He also urged the state government to take action to prevent any attempts to undermine Kannada and Karnataka.
In response, Karnataka Rakshana Vedike (KRV) president T.A. Narayana Gowda announced a large-scale protest in Belagavi on February 25, condemning the assault and demanding the withdrawal of the POCSO case filed against the bus conductor. The protest, titled “Namma Nade Belagavi Kadege,” seeks to assert Kannada pride and challenge the case, which KRV claims is unjust.
In a video statement, Gowda warned that if the case isn’t withdrawn by February 25, intense protests will follow. “If you love Marathi, express it in Maharashtra. In Karnataka, Kannada is supreme. You must respect and learn Kannada,” Gowda declared, stating his intention to visit various locations in the state to lead the movement. His announcement has further fueled tensions between pro-Kannada and pro-Marathi groups in the border areas.
