Bengaluru: The Karnataka high court today upheld Bengaluru police commissioner’s order on banning entry of VHP leader Praveen Togadia into Bengaluru.
He was to take part in Virat Hindu Samavesha, which will be held at National College grounds on February 8.
Advocate General (AG) Ravivarma Kumar on Thursday had submitted to the high court that Togadia was a dangerous man who could disrupt the communal harmony in the State through his provocative speeches.
In likelihood that Togadia may deliver provative speech at the Hindu convention, the Bengaluru police commissioner issued orders banning Togadia from entering Bengaluru between February 5 and February 11. The decision has been met with much criticism from right wing groups and religious leaders, and also the opposition BJP, which crippled the House proceedings for two consecutive days and even staged a walkout.
BJP walks out of Karnataka Assembly against ban on Togadia
Earlier, on Wednesday the BJP MLAs raised objection in the Karnataka Assembly to the ban on VHP leader Praveen Togadia entering Bengaluru, leading to the adjournment of the House repeatedly.
BJP leader R Ashoka raised the issue as the House met for the day and questioned the government’s intention behind the action and called it an attempt to “suppress” the majority, leading to a heated argument between BJP and Congress MLAs.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah intervened to say government would not allow anything that disturbs peace in society. This further angered BJP members.
The Speaker said he would give permission to raise the issue during Zero Hour and Question Hour should be allowed to function smoothly, to which members agreed.
(Agencies)
