1991 anti-Tamil violence in Karnataka

The 1991 anti-Tamil violence in Karnataka refers to a series of violent incidents that occurred in the southern Indian state of Karnataka, primarily targeting the Tamil-speaking community. This unrest was largely fueled by linguistic and cultural tensions, exacerbated by socio-political factors, including the rise of regionalism and ethnic nationalism in India. The violence erupted in response to demands for greater recognition of Kannada language and culture, leading to widespread riots in Bangalore and other cities. During this period, numerous Tamils were attacked, leading to loss of life, property damage, and mass displacement. The incident highlighted the complexities of linguistic identity in India and raised questions regarding state-sponsored protections for minority communities.