The Maharashtra-Karnataka border dispute has flared up once again following a violent incident involving a bus conductor in Belagavi. This has led to the suspension of bus services between the two states and highlights the ongoing tensions rooted in territorial and linguistic claims. The dispute, which has existed since India's independence, remains unresolved despite numerous commissions and legal efforts over the years.
Background Of Dispute
The origin of the Maharashtra-Karnataka border issue can be traced back to the reorganization of Indian states in 1956. The Belgaum district, with its diverse linguistic population, became a contentious area. In 1948, the Belgaum municipality expressed a desire to merge with Maharashtra, citing the large Marathi-speaking population. However, under the States Reorganisation Act of 1956, Belgaum was placed under Karnataka, despite the area's multilingual demographics.
States Reorganisation Commission
The States Reorganisation Commission, led by Justice Fazal Ali, played a pivotal role in determining the boundaries of states. In its 1955 report, the commission recommended that Belgaum remain with Karnataka based on administrative efficiency and economic factors. While it acknowledged the presence of both Marathi and Kannada speakers, the commission emphasized that linguistic considerations alone should not define state boundaries.
Mahajan Commission's Report
In 1966, the Mahajan Commission was set up to address the ongoing dispute. The commission suggested that Belgaum city and 247 surrounding villages should stay with Karnataka, while 264 villages should be transferred to Maharashtra. Maharashtra rejected this recommendation, claiming it was biased, while Karnataka accepted it.
Legal And Political Developments
Over the years, the dispute has been marked by various legal challenges. Maharashtra filed a petition with the Supreme Court in 2004, seeking control over Belgaum. In 2022, Maharashtra’s Legislative Assembly passed a resolution asserting its claim on the region. The Maharashtra Ekikaran Samiti (MES) has also been actively campaigning for Belgaum to merge with Maharashtra. Tensions intensified in December 2024, when several MES members were arrested for protesting against Karnataka’s legislative session held in Belagavi.
Recent Incidents
The latest incident occurred on February 21, 2025, when a KSRTC bus conductor was assaulted in Belagavi for failing to speak Marathi. This incident escalated when a group of individuals confronted the conductor, leading to a violent altercation. In retaliation, pro-Kannada activists targeted MSRTC buses, leading to the suspension of interstate bus services. The situation remains tense as both states continue to assert their territorial claims over the disputed region.
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