Black flag protest against D. K. Shivakumar at Sant Sevalal Jayanti event

Davanagere : Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar faced black flag protests during the 287th birth anniversary celebrations of Sant Sevalal at Bhayagad in Suragondanakoppa on Saturday. Members of the Banjara community staged the demonstration alleging injustice due to the State government’s internal reservation policy.

As Shivakumar arrived at the venue and walked towards the stage, a large section of youth seated in the auditorium stood up and waved black cloths in protest. They raised slogans against the Deputy Chief Minister and the State government, expressing anger over the implementation of internal reservation, which they claimed has adversely impacted their community.

Placards opposing the policy were also displayed inside the venue, briefly disrupting the programme. The protest created a tense atmosphere, with slogans echoing across the hall as dignitaries were seated on the dais. The sudden outburst reportedly caused embarrassment to the Deputy Chief Minister during the event.

Police personnel deployed at the venue intervened immediately and attempted to calm the protesters. Security was tightened to prevent further escalation and ensure the continuation of the programme.

Former MLA P. Rajeev addressed the gathering amid the commotion and urged restraint. “The Deputy Chief Minister has come to attend the programme. It is our responsibility to show respect. We will engage with those who are upset and try to resolve their concerns. However, if police take action against anyone unnecessarily, we will not remain silent,” he warned.

Deputy Speaker Rudrappa Lamani also appealed for calm, emphasising that the occasion was a religious event. “This is a spiritual programme and should not be mixed with community disputes. I will stay here for two days. Let us sit together and discuss the issues to find a solution,” he said.

However, some members of the audience objected to his remarks and continued raising slogans, including those in support of P. Rajeev. Despite the disturbances, organisers managed to proceed with the Jayanti celebrations under heightened security.

The incident underscores the growing discontent within sections of the Banjara community over the internal reservation policy, which has become a politically sensitive issue in the State.