Shivraj Patil asks Karnataka to restore peace

NEW DELHI: Union Home Minister Shivraj Patil, during his visit to Bangalore on Saturday evening, asked the Karnataka government to "restore peace and normalcy in the state", said a home ministry official on Sunday.

"He held discussions with (Karnataka Governor) Rameshwar Thakur," the home ministry official added.

Karnataka's reputation as a communally harmonious state took a severe beating following attacks on churches widely blamed on rightwing Hindu groups.

The widespread revulsion over the vandalism that began Sep 14 in coastal Karnataka is giving way to concern that the violence as well as allegations that Hindus are being converted may be used by fringe groups to create a gulf between Hindus and Christians.

The home minister also met the state home minister, law minister, the director general of police and the chief secretary.

"Patil cautioned the state government to be more careful and restore peace and normalcy in the state," the official said.