The Karnataka Police have increased security measures in areas of Bengaluru with a significant Tamil-speaking population following the Supreme Court’s directive to release water to Tamil Nadu. In response to the order to release water from Karnataka dams during a rain-deficit year, Kannada activists and farmers’ organizations have called for a statewide bandh (shutdown) on Friday, with protests planned in Bengaluru as well.
Bengaluru Police Commissioner B. Dayanand has instructed local Deputy Commissioners of Police (DCPs) to bolster security in the city and make additional arrangements in areas with a large Tamil population. Preventive measures have been taken to gather information on organizations planning protests and road blockades.
Bengaluru, which has a substantial Tamil population, saw severe violence targeting Tamilians in 1991 following demonstrations against the Cauvery Water Tribunal’s orders. In preparation for further protests, the police are on high alert across the state.