Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru

Mangaluru, Aug 14: Several BJP activists were on Friday August 14 detained for holding a protest without official permission and later released.

The BJP was about to hold a protest near the DC's office against Youth Congress for hoisting their party flag on the pole bearing the national emblem and meant for hoisting the National Flag. Terming it as an insult to the nation, a case was also filed against the Youth Congress.

On Friday, the BJP members gathered near DC's office to condemn the incident, but even before the protest could start, Pandeshwar police arrived, rounded them up in the police van and took them away even as the protestors shouted slogans.

Police sources said that 29 people were detained and later released on bail. The police action was taken in view of security concerns, especially as it was the eve of Independence Day.

Meanwhile, the BJP Yuva Morcha condemed the Youth Congress and said, "The young Congress leaders have insulted our national emblem. As per an act passed in 1972, insulting of national anthem, emblem, and national flag, are tantamount to criminal offences. About these offences, in addition to filing reports in the police stations, reports need be filed with the union home minister and the President of India. A report has already been filed in Konaje police station, and we are sure the guilty would be punished. The district deputy commissioner, by issuing a childish statement, has tried to appease the guilty."