Kumaraswamy blames vested interests for communal violence

Bangalore, Jan 22 (UNI) Karnataka Chief Minister H D Kumarswamy today blamed certain vested interests behind the three day orgy of communal violence in the city, aimed at tarnishing the image of the coalition government and destabilise it.

Talking to newsmen after a high level review of the law and order situation in the city, he told reporters that the forces which were behind the violence in Dakshina Kannada and during the funeral procession of Kannada matinee idol Rajkumar, had indulged in violence this time also.

One teenager was killed in police firing and several others, including policemen, were injured in the violence and arson in several areas of Eastern part of Bangalore, between January 19 and 21. Mr Kumaraswamy categorically rejected the Congress demand for a judicial inquiry into the incidents stating ''there is no need for it''.

Referring to the Congress demand for a judicial inquiry, he said it was part of that party's programme to undermine the JD(S)-BJP government and it kept making such demand time and again.

The situation, though tense, was normal for the entire day today.

Several shops and establishments in the troubled area had downed their shutters fearing more violence. However no untoward incident was reported after the night curfew relaxed this morning. The authorities decided not to clamp the curvew again tonight, though prohibitory order would be in vogue. Forces from the neighbouring states of Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu have been summoned to reinforce the security. The situation would be reviewed tomorrow again, top police officials said.

Home Minister M P Prakash, Health Minister R Ashok and top police officials including DGP K R Srinivasan and Police commissioner Neelam Achyuta Rao took part in the meeting.

He said that some vested interests were systematically indulging in anti-social activities after the coalition government assumed power. He said the government was contemplating banning of processions and rallies in the state.

He complimented the police for taking swift action in controlling the situation and the government was considering to provide more facilities to the department to handle such violence situations effectively in future.

He regretted that such incidents, which drew global attention was a blot to the city as it would have a serious impact on investments.

He said that his government had succeeded in bringing normalcy within no time in comparision to the violences that took place during the past several governments in the state.

UNI