Attack on DC: Govt employees strike work

The work at government offices in the district came to a halt on Tuesday as employees stayed away from offices and boycotted the work condemning the attack on Deputy Commissioner A M Kunjappa.

The voluntary strike by government employees evoked good response, with all officials and employees at taluk and district headquarters absenting themselves to work. The district administration building complex and all government offices, which are usually abuzz with activity wore a deserted look as they remained locked for the day.

The employees, who began a protest march from Chamarajeshwara Swamy temple, assembled near the DC’s office and staged a dharna. They submitted a memorandum to Superintendent of Police Kuldip Kumar Jain, stating that DC Kunjappa, who had come to ease the situation was intentionally attacked. They blamed the DySP for failing to provide security to the DC and sought action against him.

BJP district unit and Akhila Bharatha Vidyarthi Parishat members also staged a protest condemning the attack. Members of Vishwa Hindu Parishat and Bajrang Dal staged a protest at Bhuvaneshwari Circle by torching tyres.

Cases booked

SP Jain disclosed that four cases have been booked in connection with the incident.  “Search is on to arrest eight persons. Cases have been booked against them. The Police Department is committed to provide security to government employees and there is no need for fear. The guilty will be arrested and punished,” he assured.

Clarification

Meanwhile, Granite Quarry Owners Association president G M Hegde clarified in a press meet that there is no connection between their association and the incident. The association condemns the incident, he added.

Hegde said the particular lorry driver had necessary permit. The police had thrashed him as he delayed in producing the documents. Irked over this, the mob, which had gathered by then pelted stones at the car, injuring the DC. The association condemns the police atrocity, he said. However, the association will extend cooperation to the probe, he added.