Belagavi, Feb 22 (Reporter) A Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) bus conductor was assaulted by a group of Marathi-speaking passengers for not conversing in Marathi in Belagavi district. The incident took place on Friday during a bus journey from Belagavi city to Balekundri, when a female passenger, availing of Karnataka’s Shakti scheme for free bus travel, sought free ride for male co-traveler. Reports suggest that when conductor Mahadev Hukkeri asked her to communicate in Kannada, the situation escalated, leading to a physical assault. Mahadev, while narrating the ordeal to the media, stated that a woman and a man requested two free tickets. When he inquired about the second ticket, the woman pointed towards the man, but Mahadev informed them that free travel was only applicable to women. The passengers then insisted that he speak in Marathi. Upon his refusal, citing his inability to understand Marathi, a heated argument ensued. Soon, 6-7 passengers attacked him inside the bus. When the bus was stopped near Balekundri, a larger group gathered and further assaulted him. Mahadev sustained injuries and was rushed to Belagavi Civil Hospital for treatment. He recounted his harrowing experience, stating that he pleaded for mercy, but the attackers showed no remorse. Confirming the incident, Deputy Commissioner of Police Rohan Jagadish stated that the assailants not only targeted the conductor but also physically assaulted the bus driver. A case has been registered at Marihal police station, and authorities have assured that all those responsible will be identified and brought to justice. Meanwhile, KSRTC officials have demanded enhanced security for its staff, particularly in border areas prone to linguistic tensions. The Belagavi region has historically been a flashpoint for Marathi-Kannada linguistic conflicts, with both Maharashtra and Karnataka staking claims over the area...////...