Chikkaballapur, 27 June

Tensions ran high during the Kempegowda Jayanti celebrations in Chikkaballapura on Saturday as JD(S) workers and supporters protested against Congress MLA Pradeep Eshwar and even threw slippers at his direction.

The protesters were reportedly angered by Eshwar’s recent comments against former chief minister and JD(S) leader HD Kumaraswamy, and demanded that he be barred from participating in the official function.

During Eshwar’s procession through the town’s main streets, JD(S) supporters created a noisy ruckus, raised slogans against the MLA and attempted to prevent him from entering Kannada Bhavana, where the government function was being held. Police intervened and escorted him into the venue.

As the programme was about to begin, a group of protesters entered the hall, shouting slogans and insisting that the MLA leave the venue.

After the function, as Eshwar was leaving the venue, a couple of slippers were allegedly hurled at his vehicle. Police quickly brought the situation under control.

Meanwhile, JD(S) MLA BN Ravikumar of Sidlaghatta criticised Eshwar at a press conference, accusing him of making irresponsible remarks against senior leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Ravikumar declared that if Eshwar retained the Chikkaballapur seat, he would serve as a watchman at the latter's house. However, if Eshwar lost, Ravikumar dared him to work as a watchman at Kumaraswamy’s house.