Ruckus in Belagavi council over MES member’s demand for govt. documents in Marathi

A demand by a council member belonging to Maharashtra Ekikaran Samiti (MES) for providing documents and council proceedings in Marathi led to heated arguments and ruckus in the monthly council meeting of the Municipal Corporation in Belagavi on Thursday.

The demand was made to MES member Ravi Salunke and it was supported by MES-backed members Shivaji Mandolkar and Viashali Bhatkande. However, this was strongly opposed and condemned by other members, including those of the ruling party (BJP).

Reacting strongly to the demand, nominated member Ramesh Sontakki pointed out that although Kannadigas are a majority in Akkalkot, Jath and Solapur, government documents are being provided there only in Marathi and not in Kannada.

He urged the council not to pass any resolution in favour of giving documents in Marathi and pointed out that the MES members are repeatedly raising the issue unnecessarily.

Floor leader Hanumanth Kongali demanded that the proceedings of the council should be conducted as per the agenda and none, including Ravi Salunke, should be allowed to deviate from it.

Taking strong exception to Mr. Salunke’s demand, other BJP members demanded that Mr. Salunke should be disqualified for taking a stand that is against the State of Karnataka.

As the altercation among ruling party members and MES members escalated leading to cacophony, Mayor Mangesh Pawar adjourned the meeting for five minutes.

Meanwhile, MLA Abhay Patil said that Congress support extended to him is the reason for such behaviour of Mr. Salunke.

After the meeting resumed, the BJP members demanded that the proceedings be conducted as per agenda and rules and that none should speak in between or create confusion by raising unwarranted issues.

Mr. Mangesh Pawar ruled that if members violated the rules, then he will be forced to take action.