Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru

Mangaluru, May 18: In the wake of the Supreme Court's direction to conduct floor test in Karnataka assembly on Saturday May 19, the Mangaluru city police commissionerate has issued prohibitory orders within the city limits to avoid any untoward incident.

Fearing clash between political parties on the day the Karnataka assembly goes on floor test, Mangaluru police commissioner Vipul Kumar on Friday May 18 issued prohibitory orders under Section 144 from 8 am on May 19 to 10 am on May 20 as a precautionary measure.

"With the floor test on May 19 at 4 pm, there is a possibility that workers of different political parties may come out in groups to either protest or celebrate. Mangaluru city is highly sensitive both politically and communally, and political party workers here are still engaged in going over the wins or losses they suffered.

"Just months ago, normal life in Dakshina Kannada district was thrown out of gear due to communal disturbances. Even though at present the situation is peaceful, minor incidents quickly take on communal and political colour here. Hence, Section 144 will be imposed on Mangaluru city police commissionerate limits from 8 am on May 19 to 10 am on May 20 as precautionary measure," the order from the police commissioner stated.

During this time, a group of five or more persons cannot assemble in a public place like streets and government spaces. No one will be allowed to carry any weapon and no victory rallies/processions/public meets will be allowed.

B S Yeddyurappa took oath as the chief minister on Thursday May 17, after governor Vajubhai Vala invited the BJP to form the government, giving 15 days to the party to prove majority. The Congress and the JD(S) which have formed a post-poll alliance challenged the governor's decision in the apex court, which directed the concerned to conduct the floor test on May 19 at 4 pm.