Belagavi: In a significant development amid ongoing protests by pro-Kannada organisations, the regional commissioner has sought a detailed report from the Belagavi City Corporation (BCC) regarding the demand to pass a pro-Karnataka resolution declaring Belagavi an integral part of Karnataka.
Background of the Agitation
The move follows over 75 days of continuous agitation by pro-Kannada groups, border activists and Kannada enthusiasts, who have been staging protests since March 26. Demonstrators have been submitting daily memoranda to the regional commissioner’s office, pressing for immediate action on the resolution issue.
Regional Commissioner's Directive
Taking serious note of these representations and sustained media coverage, regional commissioner KA Janaki, in a letter dated June 8, directed the corporation commissioner to submit a comprehensive factual report. The report is expected to cover the ongoing protests, allegations raised by activists, and the status of efforts to place and pass the pro-Karnataka resolution in the corporation council.
Allegations Against BJP Councillors
Significantly, the regional commissioner has also referred to a key allegation by pro-Kannada organisations that despite holding a majority of 35 members in the 58-member corporation, BJP councillors have not taken the initiative to move or support the resolution. The issue had earlier come up for discussion at a meeting chaired by public works minister Satish Jarkiholi, during which deputy commissioner Mohammad Roshan had instructed the civic body to furnish complete details. However, the lack of any concrete decision since then has intensified dissatisfaction among protestors.
Activists' Response
Activists view the regional commissioner’s intervention as a crucial administrative step that lends weight to their agitation. They have urged the government and officials to act decisively based on the forthcoming report and facilitate the passage of the pro-Karnataka resolution.
Future Outlook
The prolonged agitation, centred on issues of Kannada identity, self-respect and territorial integrity in the border region, has now entered a crucial phase, with expectations of further administrative or political developments in the coming days.
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