In a recent turn of events, TA Narayana Gowda, the state president of Karnataka Rakshana Vedike, and 29 associates were arrested in Bengaluru following a pro-Kannada protest that turned violent on Wednesday.
During their rampage in Bengaluru, the activists, related with the Karnataka Rakshana Vedike, damaged signboards of shops not written in Kannada language, and reignited the language debate. Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah responded by promising an ordinance to mandate 60 per cent Kannada on signboards.
Who is TA Narayana Gowda?
Narayana Gowda heads Karnataka Rakshana Vedike, an organisation that advocates for 'Kannada is caste, Kannada is religion and Kannada is God'.
The group played a huge role in the recent Karnataka-Maharashtra border dispute. Recently, Narayana Gowda wrote a letter to PM Modi in his own blood, urging intervention in the Cauvery River water issue.
Originally a garment worker, Narayana Gowda became a garment factory owner, according to Hindustan Times.
In 2005, his outfit gained attention by smearing black paint on the face of the then Belagavi corporation Mayor Vijay More after a controversial resolution.
Many have also questioned Narayana Gowda's daughter's education, highlighting that she studies in the United States and not in Karnataka.
What’s the latest update about the protests?
The protests were brought under control and activists were arrested. CM Siddaramaiah and Deputy CM DK Shivakumar condemned the vandalism. Despite supporting the 60 per cent Kannada requirement on signboards, they emphasised the need to maintain law and order.
Shivakumar also stated the government's stance on protests, saying that while citizens have the right to express their opinions, causing damage to public or government property is unacceptable. He assured that the government is committed to maintaining law and order.
