BJP sponsored Karnataka bandh ends on peaceful note

BANGALORE: Barring minor incidents of stone-pelting and arson, the day-long Karnataka bandh called by BJP to protest Governor H R Bhardwaj giving sanction to prosecute Chief Minister B S Yeddyurappa on allegations of corruption passed off peacefully today paralysing life in many parts of the state.

Two state transport corporation buses were set ablaze last night at Honnali in Davanagere district and at least about 70 vehicles, including some buses damaged in stone-pelting in parts of the state, ADGP (Law & Order) A R Infant told PTI.

"The bandh was by and large peaceful. About 500 people were taken into custody at various places", he said.

BJP claimed the peaceful bandh has been a 'total success' and thanked the people for their 'overwhelming support', which it said has sent a clear message to the Governor that he should leave Karnataka.

State BJP spokesman Ayanur Manjunath alleged JD(S) activists were responsible for minor incidents aimed at 'tainting' the government's image even as the H D Devegowda- led party said it would file a contempt case against the government for giving the bandh call.

BJP activists staged protests across the state decrying the Governor's action and demanding his immediate recall.

Prominent among those who courted arrest in the city were former ministers Katta Subramanya Naidu and Aravind Limbvali, along with some supporters.

Slamming BJP for giving the bandh call, KPCC President G Parameshwara said his party would hold a rally in the city next week and also contemplate legal action against the government for supporting the bandh.

Parameshwara and H D Devegowda declared that their parties would continue the fight till the BJP government was dislodged.