On the surface, what transpired on December 27th in Bengaluru seemed like a routine protest, with demonstrators advocating for the mandatory use of Kannada on commercial signboards within Karnataka. However, the peaceful demonstration led by T.A. Narayana Gowda, president of the Karnataka Rakshana Vedike (KRV), took an unexpected turn, descending into violence and vandalism. The aftermath left behind damaged property, injured police personnel, and a trail of conflicting narratives.
Narayana Gowda, a prominent figure in the Kannada advocacy movement, spearheaded the protest with the intention of championing the cause of Kannada language and culture. His supporters maintain that the gathering was initially peaceful and legitimate, focused on promoting linguistic identity within the state. According to them, the outbreak of violence was triggered by unidentified miscreants who infiltrated the protest, disrupting what was supposed to be a non-violent expression of dissent.
However, the police present a contrasting version of events. Their official stance depicts a mob led by Narayana Gowda engaging in acts of hooliganism, damaging public property, and assaulting law enforcement officers. Three First Information Reports (FIRs) were filed against Narayana Gowda and other unidentified individuals, outlining charges of rioting, vandalism, and obstruction of official duty. These charges culminated in the arrest of Gowda and 29 others on the morning of December 28th.
Gowda’s response to the arrest was marked by defiance and a vehement denial of the charges. He categorically dismissed the accusations as “false allegations” concocted by the police to “harass Kannada activists.” Challenging the authorities to provide concrete evidence of any attack by KRV members on police personnel, Gowda’s statements further fuelled the anger among his supporters. Overnight protests ensued, demanding his immediate release and the withdrawal of all charges.
Narayana Gowda and KRV people threaten the Chief Minister
The simmering tension escalated when KRV activists issued a threat to “lay siege” to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s residence. Accusing the Chief Minister of “harassing Kannada activists,” they pledged to continue their protests until Gowda was freed. In response, the police fortified security around the Chief Minister’s residence, anticipating potential unrest and seeking to maintain law and order.
The incident has ignited a fervent debate surrounding language rights, cultural preservation, and the permissible conduct of protests. Supporters of Narayana Gowda within the Kannada community demand a fair investigation and the dropping of charges. They question the police’s narrative, expressing concern about the alleged suppression of Kannada sentiment.
Conversely, critics condemn the violence and destruction, emphasizing the importance of non-violent expression of dissent. They argue that Gowda’s actions and the subsequent threats against the Chief Minister undermine the cause of Kannada language protection by resorting to harmful and unlawful tactics. “Anyone can protest, but no one should damage public property”, the Chief Minister said in a later press conference.
The repercussions of this incident extend far beyond the immediate aftermath. The Kannada language debate has been reignited, with both sides holding steadfast and opposing viewpoints. The legal proceedings against Gowda and his associates will be closely monitored, as the outcome could set a precedent for future protests and cultural activism in Karnataka. The police face the challenging task of investigating the incident meticulously, ensuring a fair and impartial process without resorting to undue force or bias.