Karnataka: Cops turn Kodagu into fortress

Mysuru: Kodagu district has been fortified through deployment of more than 4,000 officers and policemen on the eve of Tipu Jayanthi in order to avert recurrence of communal violence which rocked the region last year.  

Speaking to Deccan Chronicle, Superintendent of Police P Rajendra Prasad said: “Notices have been served on 900 rowdy sheeters, goondas and others under section 107 of IPC including those who were part of violence witnessed in Madikeri last year. And written bonds have been collected from 300 of them that they will not disrupt peace. Apart from 1000 police men on duty in the city, additional 3000 police men including two SPs, eight deputy superintendents, 20 inspectors, 1450 men, 500 home guards, 12 KSRP and DAR platoons are being deployed. Southern range IGP Mr B K Singh, and Mr Sunil Agarwal, ADGP, are camping in the district. And CCTV cameras are being installed at check posts in and around Old Council hall in Madikeri, Chennabasappa hall in Somwarpet, at Town hall in Virajpet where Tipu Jayanthi will be observed.”  

In Kodagu, Tipu Jayanthi Virodi Horata Samithi have called for a bandh and warned of “jail bharo” movement, while those of Ponnampet Kodava Samaj have announced that they would participate in a protest march to Virajpet, and Swabhimani Mahila Bana has stated that a black flag would be hoisted. RSS workers are likely to protest in General Thimayya circle in Madikeri.
In Mysuru, too,  forces have been deployed.  Police commissioner Dr A Subramanyeswara Rao said 1500 policemen, 30 commandos, and 20 mounted policemen will be on duty.