SRS gives bandh call in Karnataka tomorrow, police steps up vigil

The BJP government in Karnataka today put police on high alert ahead of Valentine's Day to counter the threat by right-wing outfit Shri Rama Sene to disrupt the celebrations.

The Rama Sene also gave a call for a Karnataka Bandh tomorrow to protest against the attack on its founder Pramod Mutalik allegedly by Youth Congress activists here yesterday.

As parts of Karnataka witnessed protests from Sene activists over blackening of the face of Mutalik at a debate organised by a local tv channel in an open air theatre, police took at least 100 Sene workers into preventive custody.

Gearing up to meet the situation, chief minister BS Yeddyurappa chaired a high-level home department meeting and directed police to take strict action against trouble makers.

"The government will not tolerate any attempt to disturb peace and tranquillity," Yeddyurappa warned. 

Bangalore City police nabbed two persons for questioning in connection with yesterday's attack on Mutalik and launched a drive to take anti-social elements into preventive custody.

City police commissioner Shankar Bidari said those who want to celebrate Valentine's Day festivities, which falls on February 14, could go ahead and in case of any obstruction, they could seek police help.

"We will maintain vigil. Those celebrating Valentine's day should not cross the limits. Same rule applies to moral policing," Home Minister Dr V S Acharya said, sending a clear warning to Sene activists.