In light of recent violent incidents, Maharashtra is evaluating the deployment of security marshals or police personnel on state transport buses traveling to Karnataka. This consideration follows an attack on a Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) bus driver in Karnataka’s Chitradurga district, allegedly by pro-Kannada activists.
The longstanding border dispute between Maharashtra and Karnataka centers around the Belagavi district, a region with a significant Marathi-speaking population. Historically, both states have laid claim to this area, leading to periodic tensions and conflicts. The recent assault has reignited these disputes, prompting both states to suspend bus services to ensure passenger safety.
Maharashtra’s Transport Minister, Pratap Sarnaik, condemned the attack and emphasized the state’s commitment to protecting its citizens. He stated, “Marathi is our pride, and we need to look after the security of our passengers.” Sarnaik also mentioned that senior transport department officials are in discussions with their Karnataka counterparts to resolve the issue and ensure the safety of travelers.
The attack occurred on February 21, 2025, when an MSRTC bus traveling from Bengaluru to Mumbai was intercepted near Chitradurga. The driver, Bhaskar Jadhav, was assaulted for not conversing in Kannada. In a related incident, a Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) bus conductor was attacked in Belagavi for not speaking Marathi. These events have escalated tensions, leading to the suspension of over 250 MSRTC buses to Karnataka, leaving many passengers stranded.
The Belagavi border dispute traces its roots to the States Reorganisation Act of 1956, which reorganized state boundaries based on linguistic demographics. Maharashtra has long claimed that Belagavi and surrounding areas, with their substantial Marathi-speaking populations, should be part of its territory. Karnataka, however, maintains administrative control over the region, leading to periodic flare-ups of tension.
In response to the recent incidents, Maharashtra’s Minister of State for Home, Yogesh Kadam, emphasized that it is the responsibility of both states to ensure the safety of passengers. He warned that if Karnataka fails to provide adequate security, Maharashtra will take necessary measures to protect its citizens.
The suspension of bus services has disrupted daily commutes and economic activities between the two states. Authorities are urging calm and are working towards a resolution to prevent further escalation. The situation remains fluid, with both governments seeking to address the underlying issues contributing to the unrest.
As discussions continue, the deployment of security personnel on interstate buses is being considered as a temporary measure to reassure passengers and deter potential aggressors. The governments of Maharashtra and Karnataka are also exploring long-term solutions to the border dispute to foster peaceful coexistence and mutual respect between the neighboring states.
In conclusion, the recent attacks on transport personnel have brought the Maharashtra-Karnataka border dispute back into the spotlight. Both states are taking steps to ensure the safety of their citizens while seeking amicable solutions to the longstanding territorial disagreements. The deployment of security on buses may serve as a deterrent to future incidents, but lasting peace will require addressing the root causes of the conflict through dialogue and cooperation.
