BENGALURU: The state-wide bandh call by some Kannada organisations failed to evoke the desired response on Monday. Only reported incidents were mild stone pelting in Ramanagar district, and a road block by activists near Town Hall in the city.
In spite of rumours that a rally by Kannada activist Vatal Nagaraj and others would be called off, they gathered and staged a demonstration near Town Hall.
The group and their supporters were detained by police at Corporation Circle as they decided to lay siege on Vidhana Soudha. Movement of traffic was affected due to the same.
The bandh was called in demand of the implementation of Mahadayi and other drinking water projects in North Karnataka.
Schools and transport services remained unaffected in Bengaluru, but additional police forces were deployed to prevent any untoward incidents.
Police authorities confirmed that vehicular movement was normal, but more policemen were deployed near metro stations, Majestic, Shivajinagar and other crowded places across the city.
Senior police officials also patrolled their respective divisions to keep an eye on anti-social elements.
The bandh also failed to evoke any response in Hubballi on Monday with a majority of schools, banks, government offices and others functioning normally.
Bandh Highlights
* Police had in 2016 taken preventive custody of some activists due to riots during the Cauvery water protests.
* Unhappiness among people on frequent Bundhs called by Kannada activists resulted in lack of support by other organisations.
* Malls and shopping complexes remained open in Bengaluru and other cities.
* Some auto drivers demanded excessive fare from commuters.
* Top cops warn stern action against miscreants.
* Protesters tried to block highways on Bengaluru’s outskirts.