Shivakumar Calls for Protection of Civil Liberties Amid Protest Clashes

Karnataka’s chief minister D.K. Shivakumar addressed the media on Tuesday, highlighting the importance of safeguarding civil liberties, especially the right to protest without fear. He referred to Monday’s incident involving demonstrators and media workers, stating that the government is closely monitoring the situation and has requested an exhaustive police investigation. Shivakumar warned that any unnecessary force or intimidation will be subject to decisive action. He made it clear that dissent against the Election Commission or his own administration does not warrant suppression of peaceful speech. The CM promised that Karnataka will stand by the democratic standards it expects nationwide, ensuring that no double standard is applied to protests in the state.