As the winter session proceeds in Belagavi, calls to split the district into smaller administrative units have grown stronger, sparking widespread public agitation. Over the past week, Chikodi, Gokak, Bailhongal and Athani witnessed day-long bandh observances, while delegations led by influential seers met Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, urging an immediate decision. Despite the rising pressure, the state government has so far adopted a wait-and-watch approach, neither clearing nor rejecting the proposal, which has added to public frustration.
Those backing the division say this is a crucial and possibly final opportunity. They argue that if the district is not reorganised before the end of December, it may not be possible for the next two to three years, as the Election Commission is expected to impose restrictions on the formation of new districts and taluks ahead of the delimitation of Assembly and Lok Sabha constituencies. The government, however, has reiterated that a decision will be taken only after consulting all 18 MLAs from Belagavi district, and only if there is complete consensus.
Given the political sensitivities involved, the administration appears hesitant to take any step that might upset even a handful of legislators. Revenue Minister Krishna Byre Gowda said the issue was delicate and could not be resolved hastily, adding that discussions would be held with elected representatives. Protesters, however, are unwilling to wait and are stepping up efforts to ensure the matter is addressed during the current session.
Meanwhile, Kannada organisations that had earlier opposed the division—citing concerns that it could benefit the Maharashtra Ekikaran Samiti (MES)—seem to be easing their resistance. At a meeting on Thursday, leaders of several Kannada groups urged the government to involve them in consultations before arriving at a final decision. Veteran Kannada activist Ashok Chandaragi cautioned against rushing the process, recalling how the JH Patel government had once announced district status for Chikodi and Gokak, only to withdraw it later following public opposition.
The demand has also widened in scope. What began with Chikodi and Gokak has now drawn in Bailhongal and Athani, with Savadatti joining the list this week, further complicating an already contentious issue.
