BJP launch state-wide protest against Karnataka government celebrating Tipu Sultan Jayanti tomorrow

Bengaluru: Hundreds of BJP workers protesting against celebration of  Tipu Jayanthi by the Karnataka Government on November 10 courted arrest  across the state, even as the preparations are in full swing by the  State government for the celebration.

BJP workers picketed and  shouted slogans against JD(S)-Congress government across Karnataka. In  the State Capital the agitation was led by senior BJP leader and former  Deputy Chief Minister R Ashok. Similar protests were held in all  District headquarters. At Madikeri in Kodagu District, where violence  was witnessed during the same event during 2016 and 2017, former  Legislative Assembly Speaker K G Boppaiah condemned the State government  move to go ahead and celebrate Tipu Jayanthi against the interests of  Kodagu people as the 19th century warrior king Tipu Sultan had guilty of  murder of thousands of people in Kodagu.

Addressing the  agitators, former Deputy Chief Minister and senior BJP leader K S  Eshwarappa alleged that the State government is admant about celebration  despite strong protest from all sections of the people in the Society.   "Tipu is a traitor, he had killed thousands of Hindus and Christians.  He harboured anti-Hindu sentiments and forced religious conversations.  The Tipu Jayanti celebration by the government is only to appease  Muslims and it should be condemned," he said.

"Mr H D Kumarasamy  during election campaign had assured that he will not allow Tipu  Jayanthi celebration if he becomes Chief Minister, but now he is heading  the State and under pressure from coalition partner Congress the  celebration was held against his assurance," he added.

Elaborate  security has been made through out the State to maintain law and order.   Since KSRP platoons were sent for election duty in five States, the  State government has deployed Rapid Action Force (RAF) to maintain law  and order. 

Authorities have clamped Prohibitory orders under  section 144 CrPC in entire Kodagu District, besides in Srirangapatna and  parts of Mysuru for two days from today as a precautionary measure.   Taking out processions in support or against the celebrations, assembly  of more than five persons, carrying arms and lethal weapons was banned  under the section had been banned, official sources said.

Interestingly,  chief minister H D Kumaraswamy will not be taking part in the  celebrations organised at Banquet Hall in Vidhana Soudha. Only the names  of Congress leaders including deputy chief minister G Parameshwara  figures in the invitation printed by the state government.(UNI)