Sat Mar 22 02:42:07 UTC 2025: ## Karnataka Shut Down Over Belagavi Bus Conductor Assault
**Bengaluru, India –** A 12-hour statewide shutdown is underway in Karnataka today, protesting the alleged assault of a bus conductor in Belagavi last month. The conductor was attacked for not understanding Marathi. While the state government has discouraged the shutdown, and essential services like hospitals and transport corporations remain operational, the protest is expected to significantly disrupt transportation and impact class 10 students taking exams today.
Security forces have been deployed across the state to maintain order during the shutdown, which runs from 6 am to 6 pm. Several auto-rickshaw, cab, and private driver unions have joined the protest, though schools and colleges remain open. However, the disruption of transport is anticipated to affect students sitting for their examinations.
The incident sparked broader tensions between Karnataka and Maharashtra, reigniting a long-standing border dispute. The assault on the KSRTC bus conductor prompted retaliatory attacks, including an attack on an MSRTC bus driver in Karnataka and vandalism of a KSRTC bus in Maharashtra. Both states temporarily suspended some bus services to each other.
Four individuals involved in the initial attack have been arrested. However, the conductor has also been charged under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act following a counter-complaint. Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar urged for peace and adherence to the law, stating that the government would not support the shutdown. Some pro-Kannada groups have opted not to participate in the protest. The situation remains tense as the shutdown continues.
First Piper 