Pics: Umesh Marpalli

Daijiworld Media Network-Udupi (HB)

Udupi, May 3: The activists of Bajrang Dal and Vishwa Hindu Parishad staged protests in front of Clock Tower on Tuesday, May 2 condemning the brutality of Pakistani forces who killed two Indian soldiers and mutilated their bodies along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir on Monday morning.

Addressing the protesters, Bajrang Dal district convener Sharan Pumpwell said, “The soldiers are protecting the border. The cruel assassination of soldiers by Pakistani army has been done consistently. Neither soldiers nor women have security of their life. In some incidents, youths have insulted soldiers. One can face martyrdom for his motherland but not any form of insult.”

“A planned conspiracy has been forming from two-three months where some evil-minded people are insulting our soldiers in social media to provoke communal conflict. Through this protest, the activists are demanding the union government to declare emergency and also to take stern action against anti-nationals in Jammu and Kashmir.” he added.

“The government has dual stand; one law for the entire nation and separate law for Jammu and Kashmir. In many places, soldiers have been victims of stone pelting. This is condemnable. Whoever indulges in illegal activities should be dealt with strictly. Terrorists and traitors should get severe punishment. Their heads should be cut off before talking to Pakistan. Some groups have created scary environment in the police system. Terrorists and some people are trying to disturb the peaceful fabric of society by creating communal riots,” he alleged.

Former Udupi MLA Raghupati Bhat said, “People of India are able to lead peaceful life only due to the sacrifices made by soldiers. The neighbouring countries like China, Pakistan, and Bangladesh look up to us due to our peaceful atmosphere.”

“Recently, Prime Minister Modi called forth to give respect to all soldiers with standing ovation in public places because of their noble work. As citizens of the nation, we should respect the soldiers. This protest aims to garner support for the soldiers.” Raghupati added.

Speaking to the protesters, Sunil Kumar said, “The BD and VHP activists are condemning every external attack. Terrorism is not only restricted to one state. Attack on peace keepers and social servants have increased in recent time. The law needs to be strict and rigid to deal with terrorism. It is also important that we safeguard the lives of police, soldiers and peace keepers of the nation.”

Bajrang Dal leaders Dinesh Mendon, Girish Kundapur, Sumith Shetty and others were present.