DGP warns pro-Kannada activists against violence

Bangalore, Apr 2 (UNI) Karnataka Inspector General and Director General of Police K R Srinivasan today warned pro-Kannada agitators against indulging in violence, even as protests against the Hogenakkal project across river Cauvery being taken up by Tamil Nadu continued today.

However, no violence or arson was reported from any part of the State.

Speaking at the Police Flag Day function here, the official said stringent action would be taken against those indulging in violence and disturbing peace.

''Since 10th standard examination is on and elections are to be held in May, the agitation should not become the reason for disturbing peace and cause trouble to public,'' he said.

Meanwhile, police security was provided to the residence of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M Karunanidhi's daughter who lives in the city as a precautionary measure, following agitators belonging to pro-Kannada organisations attacking the Tamil Sangam office and forcefully stopping screening of Tamil films in some cinemas in the city.

The protestors burnt the effigies of Mr Karunanidhi in Davanagere, Bidar, Bijapur and in the city, demanding that the Union Government intervene and direct the Tamil Nadu Government to shelve the project.

Karnataka Rakshana Vedike (KRV), spearheading the agitation, had threatened to stop beaming of Tamil satellite channels and screening of Tamil movies in cinemas from this evening.

Meanwhile, various Kannada organisations, Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce and others have given a call for 'Karnataka Bandh' on April ten.

UNI MSP RS GD RL PM1747