CM alleges conspiracy to disturb peace, says police told to remain alert about BJP using anti-social elements

Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar alleged on Sunday that there was a conspiracy to disturb peace in society, stating that the police have been asked to remain vigilant regarding the BJP using anti-social elements. He accused the Leader of Opposition in the Legislative Assembly, R. Ashok, of inciting communal emotions. Shivakumar emphasized the need for discipline during the Ganesha procession and warned about maintaining caution around electricity poles and cables.

Ashok accused the government of imposing restrictions and preventing people from celebrating the Ganesha festival peacefully. He demanded the suspension of the jurisdictional police inspector for allegedly threatening the youth in T. Narasipur. Earlier, Ashok characterized the Congress as "anti-Hindu" and called for action against Union Minister Pralhad Joshi.

Shivakumar dismissed Ashok's claims, stating that the BJP would not misuse power by imposing restrictions and that they would allow meetings wherever people wanted, as long as they were within the law. He mentioned that the BJP State president, B.Y. Vijayendra, was spreading false statements.

Shivakumar allowed Ashok to visit T. Narasipur, but rebuked him for going to the police station and creating an unnecessary issue. He urged the BJP not to claim Ganesha festival as their property, emphasizing that it is a tradition started by Bal Gangadhar Tilak. Shivakumar encouraged the festival by declaring a holiday.

Home Minister Priyank Kharge maintained that there is no compromise in maintaining law and order and restraining communal violence in the State. He accused the BJP of trying to turn a police directive into a communal issue. To prevent any untoward incident, the police directed the Ganapathi procession to adhere to the route map.