Mangalore: VHP, Bajrang Dal Warn Against Celebration of Valentine's Day
Pics: Dayanand Kukkaje
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangalore
Mangalore, Feb 13: The members of Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal on Monday February 13 protested against the celebration of Valentine's Day and called for the closure of pubs in the city on February 14.
Stressing on how Valentine's Day, a western concept, has eroded Indian culture, the protestors urged the district administration to take steps to ensure that youths in the city do not indulge in any immoral or vulgar acts. They warned that their members would take action themselves if anything offensive takes place, and that they would hand over the offenders to the police.
They also submitted a memorandum in this regard to the district administration, and demanded a deadline of 11 pm be set for parties taking place in the city on February 14, and that pubs and discotheques be closed.
The activists also said that owners of bars and restaurants in the city have been requested not to encourage Valentine's Day celebrations. Even college students have been told by means of pamphlets not to celebrate the day.
The activists also said that they would be keeping a watch on parks and other places and catch any couple found violating Indian culture.
The protest was initially planned as a bike rally, but the activists had to be content with a march from Urwa market to PVS circle, as they had failed to get prior permission for the bike rally.