Belagavi: MES leaders detained amid 'Maha Melav' protest

Belagavi: Maharashtra Ekikaran Samiti (MES) leaders and activists were detained by the police on Monday (December 9) as they gathered to protest against the ongoing winter session of the Karnataka Assembly here.

MES activists assembled at Dharmaveer Sambhaji Circle in the city, raising slogans like “Jai Maharashtra” and demanding that Belagavi be merged with Maharashtra. Police quickly intervened and took them into custody.

Activists, arriving in groups from Belagavi city and nearby villages, were detained by police as they attempted to join the protest. Even as smaller groups continued arriving and raising slogans, police ensured they were taken into custody immediately.

A heavy police presence has been deployed at Dharmaveer Sambhaji Circle to prevent any untoward incidents. However, the increased security has led to significant traffic congestion in the area.