NAGPUR: As the winter session of the Maharashtra legislature entered its fourth day on Thursday, Minister Shambhuraj Desai launched a scathing attack on the Karnataka govt over its handling of the Belgaum border dispute.
Addressing reporters, Desai accused Karnataka of arrogance and high-handedness, claiming it consistently suppressed the rights of Marathi-speaking residents in the disputed region.
Desai highlighted that during the tenure of the previous govt, when Devendra Fadnavis was the chief minister and Eknath Shinde the deputy chief minister, a team of coordination ministers, including himself, was appointed to address the issue. However, he alleged that Karnataka thwarted these efforts by issuing orders barring Maharashtra’s delegation from visiting Belgaum. “This is a blatant example of Karnataka’s bullying tactics, which have been ongoing for years,” Desai remarked.
He reaffirmed Maharashtra’s unwavering support for the Marathi-speaking population in 865 villages, who repeatedly expressed their desire to join the state. “The people in these villages made it clear that they want to be part of Maharashtra, but Karnataka continues its unjust actions,” Desai said. He also pointed out that the border dispute remains sub judice and reminded that Union home minister Amit Shah previously initiated talks between the chief ministers of both states to find a resolution.
The Belgaum row has been a recurring flashpoint in the Maharashtra-Karnataka relationship, and Desai’s remarks underscored the political sensitivities surrounding the issue. The Maharashtra govt, now led by chief minister Devendra Fadnavis with deputy chief ministers Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar, vowed to pursue all avenues, including legal recourse, to protect the interests of the Marathi-speaking population in the disputed areas.
Desai’s fiery statements added weight to the ongoing session, where the Belgaum dispute emerged as a key agenda item. With both the legislative and executive wings of the state committed to the cause, the issue is set to remain in the spotlight.
