The Karnataka bandh evoked a varied reaction in Chikkamagaluru district. Though vehicular traffic continued without disruption, commercial outlets and shops along key roads chose to down shutters.
Kannada Sene members traversed through areas like the bus stand, I G Road, and M G Road, urging the public to observe the bandh. They made efforts to shut down an operational hotel near the bus stand. However, police officials intervened promptly and cautioned them against resorting to coercion.
A motorcycle rally also took place in Hiremagaluru as part of the protest. In Kote Badavane, demonstrators gathered in front of a few open shops, politely requesting the owners to temporarily close their businesses. On the bus stand road, protesters stopped a public bus and persuaded the driver to don a Kannada shawl as a sign of solidarity. Law enforcement has ramped up security measures throughout the district to maintain order.
In contrast, Dakshina Kannada witnessed no impact from the bandh. Private buses and KSRTC services continued operations as usual. Shops and businesses remained open, and daily activities went on uninterrupted.
Azeez Parthipady, President of the Dakshina Kannada Bus Operators Association, clarified that while they morally support the organizations backing the bandh, buses would run to avoid causing inconvenience. He emphasized that many students are currently attending exams, and several individuals from neighboring districts depend on Mangaluru’s healthcare facilities, making uninterrupted bus services essential.
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