Better tie the nuptials or Rakhi on Valentine's Day, warns Sri Ram Sena

Bangalore, Feb. 5 (ANI): Sri Rama Sena chief Pramod Muthalik has warned all couples planning to celebrate St. Valentine's Day in Karnataka, that they would be married off with all rituals and traditions or get ready to tie Rakhi (become brother and sister).

Sri Ram Sena was involved in the recent pub attack incident in Mangalore wherein the group activists allegedly abused and beat up women visitors as they tried to run for safety during vigilant attack.

"We will get the men and women who meet on February 14 married with all rituals and traditions. And if they are brother and sister then they will tie Rakhi (sacred thread that is tied to a brother). So we will be performing this act in every district and every region. The wedding will be conducted with video cameras, music band and a priest," said the Sri Ram Sena chief,

Sri Ram Sena has threatened educational institutions, restaurants and shops selling greeting cards and gifts to boycott St. Valentine Day celebrations.

Meanwhile, Union Minister for Women and Child Development, Renuka Chaudhary has said that women have the right to celebrate any day the way they want, and the state government should protect their independence.

"It is their (women's) right to celebrate a day whatever way they choose to in a democracy. They are empowered by the constitution to do what they think is right. And it is our business and state government's business to give them protection. So after these warnings if one incident happens in Karnataka, we know that there is no law and order in Karnataka. We know that there is total system's breakdown and there are rules and laws which apply to that," said Chaudhary.

In past, several hardline groups boycotted the St. Valentines Day celebrations, terming it as "cultural corruption" from the west. But even violent protests against the celebrations have not dampened the spirits of the youngsters throughout the country. (ANI)