Bengaluru, 30 May

Asserting that the government will bring the situation in the coastal region, especially Dakshina Kannada, under control, State Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Friday accused the BJP and other organisations of indulging in provocations.

"The BJP and several organisations are provoking things in Karnataka. They should understand who is at loss. The loss is for Karnataka and Dakshina Kannada district. People are migrating. Already, youth are going out as they are not getting jobs. We are trying to create jobs," Shivakumar said.

"I'm also sending a team from our (Congress) party. Our team will meet people (tomorrow) from all sections and submit a report. There is worry, but our government is committed to controlling it in every way," he added.

Meanwhile, Home Minister G Parameshwara said that the government has taken the violent incidents seriously. "The situation was unavoidable (so we had) to transfer some officers.”

Noting that he had discussed with the Director General of Police regarding the deployment of the newly formed 'Anti-Communal Force', Parameshwara said, "from today itself the work will start on structuring and then they will be deployed in Dakshina Kannada, Udupi and Shivamogga districts, and strict instructions will be given to them on maintaining peace."

Assuring action against those making instigative and hate speeches, he said posts on social media will be controlled. He also indicated about transfers of more officials in the days ahead.

Asked about Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao reportedly expressing his wish step down as district in-charge of Dakshina Kannada, Parameshwara said, "He has been saying this from the beginning, not after the current incident. He has been saying that someone from that part of the State should be made in-charge.”

Meanwhile, Rao said, "We want people from all religions, castes and sections to live peacefully together. But some people want to do politics. I have called a meeting of officials tomorrow in Mangaluru," he said.