Many, on their way to protest in the district, detained across the State
The police on Saturday foiled attempts by different groups of Kannada organisations, including Karnataka Rakshna Vedike, to enter Belgaum district and Yellur village and arrested more than 200 activists here on Saturday. They also prevented an attack on the office of Maharashtra Ekikaran Samithi leader and Belgaum South MLA Sambhaji Patil here.
The arrests were made for alleged violation of Section 35(1) (e) of the Karnataka Police Act.
According to the police, around 750 activists, who were on their way to Belgaum, were detained across the State during the day. Karnataka Rakshna Vedike State president T.A. Narayana Gowda was detained near Tadas Cross, well before he crossed Hubli city, and released later. The police had tough time dealing with the activists, including a few who had disguised as farmers, who were protesting in small groups at the Rani Chennamma Circle against the alleged anti-Karnataka and anti-Kannada activities of Marathi-speaking people and MES supporters in Belgaum.
Some activists were arrested on the road leading to Yellur village, where a large number of police personnel were present to thwart any attempt to disturb peace and harmony.
Over 100 activists were arrested in Bailhongal and Nesargi.
Attack bid
The police prevented a group of activists from attacking Mr. Patil’s office on the Belgaum Taluk Panchayat office.
(The Hindu)
