Extra forces have been stationed in Kodagu, which bore the brunt of Tipu Sultan's alleged violence.
Highlights
- Government measures include CCTVs, prohibitory orders, ban on functions
- A bandh has been called in Kodagu district on Thursday
- Two people died during violent protests of last year
The Karnataka government has taken a number of security measures to ensure that the birth anniversary of Tipu Sultan - which the state government is celebrating for the second year in a row in face of massive BJP protests -- remains peaceful on Thursday.
The state's Home Minister G Parameshwara has appealed for cooperation from the opposition, but is taking no chances with security for Tipu Jayanti. Two people had died during the violent protests that took place last year.
In Mangaluru and Kodagu -- places which bore the brunt of the 18th Century monarch's alleged violence and repression -- extra forces have been called in, including troops sent by the Centre.
In Kodagu district, where a bandh has been called on Thursday, CCTVs have been installed at 10 entry points to keep an eye on potential troublemakers.
Prohibitory orders which bans the gathering of three or more people has been imposed in the district from Monday evening and will continue at least until Friday morning.
All non-government public functions have been banned on Friday -- only events like weddings have been permitted. And there will be no toasts to Tipu - sale of alcohol has been stopped in the district from Wednesday evening.
The area's Deputy Commissioner Richard D'Souza, however, told NDTV that schools and colleges have been left open as he was "sure" the day would be a normal, working one.
The Congress government regards Tipu Sultan as a patriot and hero who fought against the British. The view of the BJP and ideological mentor, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, is diametrically opposite - one that claims the monarch was a tyrant who forcibly tortured, taxed and converted his non-Muslim subjects.
The controversy and the subsequent tension in the state has been growing, feeding on resentment from a section of locals who support the BJP view.