Dharwad, Aug 26 (DHNS): Pressing for the early implementation of the Kalasa-Banduri drinking water project for the benefit of north Karnataka districts, an hour-long bandh was observed in the twin cities of Gadag-Betageri on Tuesday.

Transport and closure of shops and establishments between 12 noon and 1 pm marked the protest. Karnataka Rakshana Vedike, Jai Bhima Sena, Jai Karnataka, Vidyarthi Janata Dal, Young India Parivara, autorickshaw drivers and representatives of various other organisations participated in the stir.

Tyres were burnt and the protestors shouted slogans against Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Gandhi Circle.

Addressing the gathering, Tontadarya Mutt seer Siddalingaswami accused Modi of behaving in a partisan manner. It is the duty of the PM to protect unity, he said and exhorted the protestors against destroying public property. He said the Centre’s attention may be drawn by ensuring the mass resignation of taluk, zilla panchayat members and elected members of Parliament and state legislature.

Nandiveri Mutt seer Shivakumaraswami and Soraturu Hire Mutt seer Pakkeereshwaraswami said water was right of the people and they should not be forced to take the protest path. Protests were also held by farmers in Ron town, Belavanakki and Yavagal villages by burning tyres and blocking the road.

The protestors laid seige to Nargund town on Monday night and Tuesday, angry at the Centre’s failure to give any assurance to the state delegation led by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. In Konnuru village, a bus was burnt down. The angry youth and farmers targetted the mini Vidhana Soudha, government offices and vehicles, completely damaging them. Official files and furniture were brought to the national highway and burnt down. In the town’s bus stand, the protestors resorted to arson after attacking shops and hotels and destroying private property.

As early as 6 am, the youth blocked entry to the town with thorn bushes. They later burnt tyres vandalised shops at will. The mobs later destroyed the street light at the bus stand.

Govt staff injured

At the Nada Kacheri, staffer Shivayogi Jalageri was injured in the rioting by the youth and has been admitted to taluk hospital. The files and furniture here too were extensively damaged. Public Works department, Circuit House, Zilla Panchayat office, Post Office, Agriculture department, taluk court also became targets of the youths’ anger.