Bangalore Bandh gets mixed response

The city saw several Kannadigas come together on Thursday to protest against the increasing incidents of sexual harassment against women and children.

A large number of Kannada activists led by Vatal Nagaraj, the head of Kannada Okkuta (Kannada Federation), an umbrella organisation of Kannada outfits, gathered at Mysore Bank Circle and Town Hall area in the morning to demand for stringent action against culprits in rape cases. The activists urged the need for strengthening the law to benefit the victims of sexual abuse. Joining these activist bodies were several non-profit organisations to encourage the cause.

Speaking about the cause, Jagadish Shettar, who is the opposition leader in the Legislative Assembly said, "Being the opposition party, we had raised the rape issue in the legislative assembly and even staged a protest against the government's inaction on such cases. But, the government is yet to take any serious action. And now, the whole society that was living in fear in the past few days, have got out on the streets to get a solution."

The 12-hour bandh, apart from protesting against sexual harassment, also voiced their objection against Marathi political parties in Belgaum. The activists demanded a ban on Shiv Sena and Maharashtra Ekikaran Samithi (MES), for allegedly disturbing peace in Belgaum.

"The Bangalore bandh was not against the government's failure or inaction on rape issues. The government is taking all necessary legal action for controlling such crimes. But, the society should also take the responsibility to eliminate the anti-social elements. However, the bandh may create awareness among public and will give a strong message to the culprits,"R Ramalinga Reddy, Bangalore in-charge minister.