Kannada activists in Belagavi have demanded the transfer of Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Roshan, accusing him of bias against Kannada language and culture. The activists, led by various Kannada organisations, submitted a memorandum to the district administration on Thursday, alleging that Roshan has been favouring Marathi-speaking groups at the expense of Kannada interests.
Allegations of Bias
The activists claimed that during a recent attempt by members of the Maharashtra Ekikaran Samiti (MES) to organise a protest march, police denied permission for a rally and allowed only a small delegation to meet officials. They alleged that Roshan instructed the police to restrict Kannada activists while permitting MES activities, demonstrating partiality. “The DC has consistently overlooked Kannada sentiments and has been working against the interests of Kannada-speaking people in the region,” said a spokesperson for the Kannada Rakshana Vedike.
Background of the Conflict
Belagavi, a border district in Karnataka, has a long-standing linguistic dispute between Kannada and Marathi speakers. The MES, which advocates for the merger of Marathi-speaking areas into Maharashtra, has often clashed with Kannada groups. The activists accused Roshan of undermining Kannada language initiatives and failing to implement government orders promoting Kannada in official work.
Demand for Action
In their memorandum, the activists demanded Roshan’s immediate transfer and an inquiry into his alleged bias. “We want a DC who respects Kannada and upholds the state’s language policy,” said a leader of the Kannada Sahitya Parishat. The activists threatened to intensify their agitation if their demand is not met within a week.
District administration officials declined to comment on the allegations, stating that they are yet to receive the memorandum formally. Meanwhile, MES leaders dismissed the claims, calling them baseless and politically motivated.
