Madikeri: Tipu as a ruler did not belong to any specific community and it is the duty of the government to ensure peaceful birth anniversary celebrations, opined Tipu Fans’ Forum general secretary Isac Khan.
Addressing a press meet, forum’s state general secretary said, the forum wishes for peaceful celebrations and supports the government’s move to celebrate the same recognizing efficient governance by Tipu during his regime. Forum is proud of the fact that Tipu belonged to Muslim community but in reality he was not community specific, Isac stated.
Last year the differences arose because the celebrations were managed by the state minority welfare department where as this year the Kannada and culture department is going to manage the program, he said.
Tipu anniversary celebrations is not the only cause for differences among communities within the district which is known for peace but certain elements are keen on causing problems by playing on the emotions of people, he alleged. Islam does not encourage idol worship and people opposing Tipu gave fillip to the celebrations, he added.
It is the responsibility of both communities to strive for peaceful celebrations and the government’s call last year for peaceful celebrations went awry because of diverse statements issued by community leaders prior to celebrations, he said.
Other members of the forum were present on the occasions.
