Karnataka govt cancels its anniversary event in wake of BJP youth leader's murder

Bengaluru: Amid massive protests against the killing of BJP Yuva Morcha member Praveen Kumar Nettary in Dakshina Kannada district, Karnataka Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai has canceled events organized to mark his government's one year in office on Thursday.

In a hurriedly called press conference at his residence on Wednesday midnight, he announced the cancellation of an official event at Vidhana Soudha, and 'Janotsava', a mega rally at Doddaballapur that was scheduled to be attended by BJP national President J P Nadda.

The decision was taken during an emergency meeting of the chief minister with State Party President Nalin Kumar Kateel and other cabinet colleagues.

"I took the decision on seeing the plight of slain leader's family. My conscience did not permit me to go ahead with celebrations after seeing the grieving mother and wife. This is not for fear of backlash. I have done it with a clean heart," Chief Minister Bommai said.

In place of celebrations, he will address a press conference, Bommai said. After the murder of Praveen, there is pain and tension. The police have been given necessary directions till late in the night.

Chief Minister Bommai further stated that innocent BJP worker's murder was part of a conspiracy. It is inhuman and condemnable.

"Instead of words, there is outrage in our minds. Especially few months after Bajrang Dal activist Harsha's murder this incident had happened which is a concern. "We will all go and pay respects to the bereaved family. The BJP President's gesture of visiting the spot is commendable," he said.

The chief minister also announced that the government has decided to raise a specially trained commando force in the state to eliminate anti-national and terrorist forces. The details of it will be revealed after discussion with officials.