Bigot, tyrant, freedom fighter? Karnataka gears up for Tipu Sultan trouble

For the police of Karnataka it would be a hectic day. Security would be high in places such as Bengaluru, Mysuru and Madikeri.

Bengaluru, Nov 1: There appears to be no end to the Tipu Sultan controversy in Karnataka. On November 10, the state gears up to celebrate Tipu Jayanthi amidst opposition from the BJP, RSS and Christians. It may be recalled that the celebrations last year turned violent and two men lost their lives in clashes.

Like last year, this time too there are two issues that are being raised. First and foremost, those opposing Tipu say that he indulged in forcible conversions and was a tyrant. Calling him a freedom fighter is wrong say those who oppose him.

Secondly the contention yet again is regarding the date. The government of Karnataka wants to celebrate Tipu Jayanthi on November 10. Some historians say that November 10 was the day he had hanged 700 Melkote Iyengars. These historians point out that Tipu's birthday falls on November 20.

Gearing up for trouble:

Like 2015, this time too the Tipu Jayanthi celebrations will be met with stiff resistance. Chief Minister of Karnataka Siddaramaiah is however insistent that the celebrations will go on this year too. The Department of Kannada and Culture will be organising the celebrations across the state.

The RSS and the BJP have also planned state wide protests on November 10. He was a bigot and a tyrant, the BJP and RSS say while stating that they would organise state wide protests.

For the police of Karnataka it would be a hectic day. Security would be high in places such as Bengaluru, Mysuru and Madikeri. Protests are likely to be intense in Kodagu where Tipu is a much hated person. He has been accused of treachery and had captured several Kodavas by tricking them. The Kodavas also accuse him of forcible conversions.

OneIndia News