Synopsis
Karnataka's Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy has come to the defense of an RTC conductor accused of misbehavior, claiming that the charges are baseless. He demands the expulsion of those who assaulted the conductor over language issues, emphasizing the importance of Kannada in the state.Key Takeaways
- Minister Reddy defends RTC conductor.
- Claims POCSO charges are baseless.
- Tensions rise in Karnataka-Maharashtra border.
- Protests by Kannada organizations.
- Calls for learning Kannada in Karnataka.
Bengaluru, Feb 22 (NationPress) In a strong defense of the RTC conductor facing allegations, Karnataka's Transport Minister, Ramalinga Reddy, asserted on Saturday that the case against the conductor is ‘baseless’, insisting that those responsible for assaulting him should be expelled from the state.
Previously, a group of passengers, including a minor girl, had attacked the conductor for requesting them to converse in Kannada. Following the incident, the conductor filed a police report, whereas the minor girl accused him of misbehavior by lodging a POCSO case.
This incident has sparked significant controversy and heightened tensions in the border areas of Karnataka and Maharashtra.
Minister Reddy emphasized that the POCSO allegations against the conductor are false.
“After the occurrence, they filed a POCSO complaint against the conductor. This is a completely fabricated case. Those who attempt to incite discord regarding land, water, and language issues should be expelled. In Chitradurga, Kannada flags are placed on Maharashtra RTC buses. Likewise, they will paint our buses black when entering Maharashtra. Such occurrences must not take place. Individuals engaging in these actions should be sent away,” asserted Minister Reddy.
“I have conferred with Home Minister Parameshwara, Belagavi Police Commissioner, SP, and KSRTC MD. The POCSO case against the conductor is invalid. It should not be taken seriously. I will also ensure that he faces no disciplinary measures. Local organizations have rallied behind him, which will bolster his moral support. The case filed against him is motivated by malice,” Minister Reddy underscored.
Tensions flared in the border district of Belagavi on Saturday following the assault on the RTC bus conductor by a group of individuals for asking them to communicate in Kannada.
Kannada organizations organized protests and obstructed the Belagavi-Bagalkot road, urging police action against those who attacked the bus conductor.
The assault transpired on Friday in Belagavi district.
The police forcibly dispersed Kannada activists, including women, who were protesting, and took them to an undisclosed location.
In response to the incident, Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy stated in Bengaluru on Saturday that individuals residing in Karnataka should learn Kannada.
He added that while residents can speak their native language, Marathi, they are also expected to communicate in Kannada while in Karnataka.
“All parties should denounce such occurrences,” he remarked.
