Raj Kumar fans indulge in arson and violence

Bangalore, Apr 13 (UNI) Four buses were set on fire and several people including policemen were injured in stone throwing by angry crowdsat the Sri Kanteerava Stadium where the body of Kannada Film Actor Rajkumar was kept for public viewing.

Police had a tough time controlling the mob as steady flow of mourners continued to overflow the sprawling stadium. Stray incidents of stone throwing were reported from various parts of the city. An angry mob vented its ire by attacking some policemen who tried to maintain law and order.

At the stadium repeated appeals made by sons of the departed actor to maintain peace fell on deaf ears as the mourners were anxious to have a glimpse of the actor. Over 30 tear gas shells were lobbed to control the mob which set fire on four buses parked outside the stadium.

Later the funeral procession started proceeding towards the state owned Sri Kanteerava Studios even as thousands of mourners waited in vain to have a glimpse of the actor. The procession is likely to reach the studios by evening where final rites would be performed with full state honours.

UNI MSP SR RA ND1348