BJP trying to divide society, says Shivakumar

Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar responded to accusations that the government is “fanning the violence” in Shivamogga by practicing “appeasement politics” and blaming Hindus. Shivakumar stated that Congress aims to bring society together, while BJP seeks to divide it. He also mentioned that Madhu Bangarappa, the minister in charge of Shivamogga district, had called a meeting of Hindu and Muslim leaders who condemned the violence. Meanwhile, the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) announced plans to hold a mahapanchayat in Shivamogga to discuss the “safety of Hindus” and demanded an investigation by the National Investigation Agency (NIA).