Daijiworld Media Network - Bengaluru
Bengaluru, Jan 13: The factions of the Karnataka Rakshana Vedike, who had alleged that Sunny Leone will pollute Kannada culture and threatened to commit mass suicide if she performs at New Year’s Eve in Bengaluru, are now ready to offer protection for Sunny’s programme, if paid a huge sum of money.
The turn of events came to light in a sting operation by India Today, which found several outfits running what appears to be brazen extortion rackets in the guise of Kannada pride.
In December, groups under the banner of Karnataka Rakshana Vedike Yuva Sene forced the state government to ban actor Sunny Leone's proposed New Year programme in Bengaluru, calling it an assault on Kannada culture.
Sunny Leone
However, the investigation revealed that senior office-bearers of the main factions of the KRV - led by Narayana Gowda and Praveen Shetty - demanding heavy bribes to allow future Leone events in the state capital.
Vice-president of Gowda's KRV Anjanappa is heard admitting that it was because of his boys the Sunny Leone’s event was cancelled. The investigative reporter who poses as the star’s publicist is told by Anjanappa that they have a big network and the entire state can be shut with just one statement.
Anjanappa then proposes that big money will resolve the matter. “Do one thing. Let it be Rs 30 lac in advance and Rs 10 lac after (the show)," demanded the KRV leader.
"I will be present there in person. Our group leaders, each supported by teams of 10 to 15 people, will come there to give protection," he guaranteed.
He says that he has taken his boss Narayana Gowda into his confidence. "I have come after speaking with him (Gowda)," Anjanappa insisted. "Give Rs 30 lac to him....To my boss, in advance."
Another KRV faction headed by Praveen Shetty has similar demands. Vice President R. Punith says, "You do the event. We will fully support it. At least 300 of our men will stand guard there on the day of the event”.
He demands 30 lakhs and half the amount to be paid in advance.
When the reporter proposes to host the programme on Valentine ’s Day, the KRV leader offers a two-acre space for the venue.
"Do it. Give me a share in the profits. Give me a percentage share as you would give to others," Punith replied.
"Such events are super successful in the electronic city. The venue will be mine," he said.