Abhiyaana valedictory venue shifted

The programme was earlier scheduled at the Government Boys College grounds, but now it will be organised at the Basaveshwara Temple premises at Aralepet, said campaign co-ordinator S Ramakrishna Bhat.

Besides, the district administration has directed teachers not to participate in the programme, officially. If they wish to, they are asked to do so unofficially. The teachers have also been asked not to force any children to attend the programme.

Classes will be conducted as usual.

The campaign organisers’ decision to shift the venue in the face of opposition, has raised many eyebrows.

Block Education Officer Shivalingaiah told Deccan Herald that although the Primary and Education Minister is taking part in the programme, the department is no where connected with it. “Participation is not compulsory for students,” he added.

Leaders of various organisations who have been protesting against the campaign, staged demonstration in the city and urged circle inspector RST Khan to arrest Gangadhareshwara Saraswathi swami and Nanjundaiah Shetty.

They sought to know why they have not yet been arrested, despite an FIR being registered against them. Khan’s effort to convince them went in vain. The leaders threatened to hold protest at the valedictory programme.  Following opposition to the campaign, there will be a strict vigil in the city, Khan said.