Political parties support agitation against R'ly recruitment

Bangalore, Jan 9 (UNI) The agitation by pro-Kannada organisations against the recruitment drive in Indian Railways today assumed political colours with major parties supporting it.

The Congress, BJP and JD(S), expressing solidarity with the agitators, protested against the 'step-motherly' attitude meted out to the Kannadigas by the Railways.

The Congress and BJP demanded scrapping of the ongoing recruitment process as it was held in a confusing manner.

Congress leaders said they would submit a memorandum to the Prime Minister, urging him to give preference to the locals in railway recruitment.

Meanwhile, a section of the agitators locked up the office of Divisional Railway Manager and stalled the physical tests on at Yeswantpur railway grounds.

They also blocked several trains in different parts of the state, demanding better representations to Kannadigas in South Western Railways.

A report from Hubli said the lawyers boycotted the court proceedings in support of the agitation.

Besides, political parties, industrial organisations including Federation of Karnataka Chamber of Commerce and Industries also expressed their support to the agitation.

UNI SIV AJ sv nd2012