Karnataka Bandh March 22nd Live: Elaborate security arrangements have been put in place after Kannada Okkuta, an umbrella organisation representing various pro-Kannada groups, called for a 12-hour statewide bandh in Karnataka on Saturday to protest the alleged assault on a state-run bus conductor in Belagavi.

The bandh, to be in place from 6 am to 6 pm, was announced on February 28 to protest against the incident where the bus conductor was allegedly thrashed for not speaking Marathi – an issue that has long sparked tensions between Karnataka and Maharashtra.

The Kannada activists have demanded strict action against the perpetrators, accusing pro-Marathi groups of inciting violence and disrupting the harmony of the region. Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar said on Thursday that the state government will not support a bandh.

Emergency services, including pharmacies, hospitals, and ambulance services will remain functional amid the bandh. Fuel stations are also slated to remain open. However, public transport services, shopping complexes and markets are likely to be closed today.

According to officials, police in various districts have deployed home guards along with the City Armed Reserve unit as a precautionary measure to ensure that the bandh is observed peacefully without causing inconvenience to the public.

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