Daijiworld Media Network - Madikeri

Madikeri, Nov 10: Various groups protesting against Tipu Jayanti celebrations at Madikeri in Kodagu were detained by police here on Saturday, November 10.

Minutes after Deputy Commissioner of Kodagu PI Srividya said that all precautionary measures were taken on security arrangements and police will take strict action against those who violate law and order, BJP workers raised slogans in the premises of the DC's office protesting against the celebrations.

"We have taken all precautionary measures. If somebody violates law and order, the police will take strict action," said Srividya.

Security has been tightened in the light of a shutdown called in the town. The shutdown has been called by various organisations, including BJP and Kodava National Council.

Speaking to reporters, BJP District Secretary Sajjal Krishnan alleged that the celebrations were nothing but vote bank politics. "Government is wasting public money in the name of Tipu Jayanti. Tipu is not a warrior. He killed so many Hindus and attacked temples. Why are they glorifying a man like him? This is vote bank politics. Everyone in Kodagu is opposing the celebrations," said Krishnan.

The Karnataka government has decided to celebrate the event to mark the birth anniversary of the controversial 18th-century ruler of erstwhile Mysore kingdom, Tipu Sultan. However, state chief minister HD Kumaraswamy said that he will not participate in the celebrations and has cited health reasons for his absence.