BJP, pro-Hindu outfits call for bandh in Kodagu district

Opposing Tipu birth anniversary celebrations, BJP and pro-Hindu organisations have called for a bandh on Tuesday even as the district administration made arrangements for the celebration.

The district administration dropped the proposed procession as part of the celebration. The police have beefed up security in the district.

The private bus owners association has extended its support to the bandh. Movement of buses are likely to be affected in the district. However, schools and colleges will remained closed as a holiday has been declared for Naraka Chaturdashi on Tuesday.

In-charge Deputy Commissioner M Kurma Rao said people may voluntarily observe bandh but any forced closure of shops and business establishments will he dealt
with sternly.

Kodagu district private bus owners association President Hosooru Ramesh Joyappa said buses will remain off the roads throughout the day. The Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation buses will ply and additional buses will be run if the need arises, said Madikeri Depot Manager Geetha.

SP Varthika Katiyar has rejected the plea of Tipu Abhimani Sangha, Kushalnagar for taking out a procession.

Congress leader V P Shashidhar charged that the SP was behaving like a dictator. “I will complain against her to Home Minister G Parameshwara,” he added.

MLAs K G Bopaiah, Appachu Ranjan and MP Prathap Simha of the BJP have decided not to take part in Tipu anniversary celebration.