From Our Special Correspondent
Daijiworld Media Network - Bengaluru

Bengaluru, Dec 19: With violent incidents in the border district of Belagavi and some parts of Bengaluru over the vandalism and defacement of the statues of Sangolli Rayanna, Shivaji Maharaj and Kittur Rani Chennamma since Friday, Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai has described Shivaji, Sangolli Rayana and Rani Chennamma as "great patriots" and appealed to the people to respect their statues and ideals.

In a fervent appeal to the people on Sunday in Hubballi, the Chief Minister has asked the people not to pay heed to rumours and maintain peace.

"Shivaji Maharaj, Kitturu Rani Chennamma and Sangolli Rayanna fought for freedom of the country, they fought for unification of the country. Dividing the society in their name should be condemned," Bommai said.

Sending a strong message against any acts of vandalism, the Chief Minister said, "Our government will not tolerate any acts of violence. It will be taken seriously and the vandals would be dealt with sternly. Already 27 persons in Belagavi and 3 in Bengaluru have been arrested in connection with cases of vandalising the statues of Shivaji and Sangolli Rayanna."

Bommai appealed to the people not to pay heed to rumours.

"Nobody should indulge in spreading false news and incite the people. The above said incidents are being propagated in different shades to mislead the people. This is far from truth. I have immense respect and pride for the patriots. People should not get swayed by rumours," he said.

He later laid the foundation stone for the scheme for supply of drinking water to the people in Bisanalli village of Shiggaon taluk in Haveri district. He also received public grievances from the villagers.