Belagavi: MES holds protest, observes black day on Karnataka Rajyotsava

Belagavi: As Karnataka celebrated its foundation day, the Maharashtra Ekikaran Samiti (MES) observed Rajyotsava as a black day by donning black attire, drawing the ire of the Kannadiga community in borderland Belagavi.

Despite having no permission from the government to hold demonstrations, activists gathered for a procession calling for the inclusion of Belagavi, Bidar, Nippani, Karwar, and Bhalki into Maharashtra. A cycle rally and foot march commenced from Dharmaveera Sambhaji Circle, weaving through the city’s main thoroughfares before concluding at Maratha Mandir.

The ‘Black Day’ rally organized by MES saw participation from children, raising concerns as they chanted slogans critical of the Karnataka government. Witnessing young and impressionable children draped in black, adorned with black belts, brandishing black flags and placards against the Karnataka government was a disconcerting sight for onlookers.

Police meanwhile had cordoned off all roads originating from Dharmaveera Sambhaji Circle were cordoned off, causing inconvenience to regular commuters. There was also a strong police presence to prevent any untoward incidents.