Bengaluru: Gaiety and patriotic fervour marked the 70th Independence Day celebrations in Karnataka on Monday, August 15.
In Bengaluru, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah hoisted the national flag, inspected guard of honour and other contingents at the Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw parade ground in the city centre. About 10,000 people, including women and children, joined Siddaramaiah in singing the national anthem at the ceremony on a partly cloudy day.
Addressing a huge audience, Siddaramaiah said that Karnataka’s had contributed immensely to the country’s struggle for freedom. He said that freedom fighters like Sangolli Rayanna, Aloor Venkat Rao, Hardikar Manjappa and others have sacrificed their lives and we should never forget what they have done for the country. He condemned the attacks on Dalits and minorities and said it was an affront to the society.
“The government is committed to provide clean drinking water to all its citizens. Nobody should suffer from lack of healthcare facilities in the State. Interest of Rs 1,800 on farm loans will be waived off. Dam will be constructed across Cauvery River in Mekedatu,” said Siddaramaiah displaying a few of the government plans for the State.
An army helicopter hovered over the sprawling parade ground showering rose petals.
According to reports from districts, the national flag was unfurled by cabinet ministers and deputy commissioners at their respective headquarters.
Independence Day celebrations also took place in schools and colleges.
