Mangalore, August 22:Even as the state government announced three days of mourning as a mark of respect to eminent writer U R Ananthamurthy who passed away on Friday August 22, some activists reportedly belonging to a right wing outfit ‘celebrated’ his demise by bursting crackers.
It is gathered that, no sooner the news of Ananthamurthy’s death flashed in the media; crew of about 10 people, reported to belong to a right wing group, assembled at Kadri welcome arch and burst crackers for about 10 to 15 minutes.
They refused to reveal their identity or give any statement to the media. None complained about the incident nor was any untoward incident reported.
Mr U R Ananthamurthy by his anti-Modi remarks had recently aroused a controversy that he would leave the country if Modi was elected as the Prime Minister. Later he retracted, saying the comments were made out of emotion. These remarks had invited rage and protest from Modi supporters and right wing groups, even prompting some to send him flight tickets after Modi became the PM. Ananthamurthy was also provided security following threat calls. Moreover, his atheist leanings and certain remarks on religious issues and practices also had raised controversies.
