Pics: Thejaswi U Poojary

Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (TP)

Udupi, Jun 12: Police detained more than 20 activists of Karnataka Rakshana Vedike (KRV) on Friday as they attempted to stage a black flag protest over the Mekedatu issue ahead of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Joseph Vijay’s visit to Kollur.

The activists had gathered near Balaipade in Udyavar, Udupi district, and were preparing to demonstrate against the Tamil Nadu government's opposition to the Mekedatu drinking water and balancing reservoir project.

Anticipating the protest, police intervened and took the activists into preventive custody before the arrival of the Tamil Nadu chief minister. More than 20 protesters were detained to prevent any disruption to law and order during the high-profile visit.

Joseph Vijay is scheduled to visit the Kollur Mookambika Temple to offer prayers.

Security has been intensified across Udupi district in view of the chief minister’s visit, with police maintaining strict vigil at key locations and along the travel route.

The detained activists were later shifted to a nearby police station as a precautionary measure.