Bengaluru/Belagavi: As Karnataka celebrated its 70th Kannada Rajyotsava with vibrant red-yellow flags, cultural parades, and a spirit of linguistic pride across the state, the atmosphere in Belagavi turned tense. Activists of the Maharashtra Ekikaran Samiti (MES) once again tried to disrupt the celebrations by organising a “Black Day” protest, drawing strong condemnation from Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, who warned of strict action.
“Anyone creating unrest in Belagavi in the name of MES must remember — the government will not tolerate any anti-Kannada activity. If you cross the line, beware of the consequences,” Siddaramaiah declared in a stern message from Bengaluru after unfurling the Kannada flag at the Kanteerava Stadium.
State Celebrates Kannada Rajyotsava with Pride
Across Karnataka, celebrations painted towns in red and yellow hues — students, artists, and citizens participated in cultural rallies honouring Goddess Bhuvaneshwari, symbolising unity and Kannada pride.
However, while the rest of Karnataka rejoiced, Belagavi witnessed protests from MES groups who shouted “Belagavi is ours,” wearing black bands and waving black flags — in sharp contrast to the festive spirit elsewhere.
MES Black Day in Belagavi Sparks Outrage
Despite the district administration’s denial of permission, MES activists staged a rally calling the Rajyotsava a “Black Day.”
Meanwhile, Kannada activists and KRV (Karnataka Rakshana Vedike) members staged counter-protests. Tension escalated as police detained several Kannada activists while reportedly providing protection to the unauthorised MES rally — a move that triggered public anger.
Adding to the controversy, Mal Maruti Police Inspector Kalimirji was seen taking a selfie with MES worker Shubham Shalke, who was later arrested — an image that went viral, raising questions about police neutrality in a border-sensitive district.
Siddaramaiah Fires Back at MES
Reacting to the Belagavi incidents, CM Siddaramaiah said:
“MES leaders are indulging in anti-Karnataka provocation. We will deal with them firmly. Maharashtra leaders may approach the Supreme Court claiming Belagavi, but Karnataka will never give up even an inch of its land. The Mahajan Commission Report is final — Belagavi will remain part of Karnataka forever.”
The Chief Minister also used the statehood day platform to reiterate his stand against Hindi imposition, asserting that Kannada should be made mandatory in official communication. “The Centre supports Hindi and Sanskrit but ignores Kannada and other regional languages. One nation, one language is not acceptable,” Siddaramaiah said.
Meanwhile, in Kalaburagi — A Separate State Demand
While Belagavi dealt with MES disruption, in Kalaburagi, the Kalyana Karnataka Separate State Awareness Committee staged a dharna at Jagat Circle, demanding a separate Kalyana Karnataka state, adding another layer of political dissent to the day’s events.
The Kannada Rajyotsava 2025 celebrations reflected both pride and provocation — pride in the state’s language and culture, and provocation from fringe groups seeking to undermine unity. As the government toughens its stance, the day’s events underline Karnataka’s enduring challenge: defending linguistic identity while countering divisive politics.
About the Author
