Bengaluru, November 9: The Karnataka government on Friday imposed Section 144 of Criminal Procedure Code in the cities of Hubli and Dharwad, along with the district of Kodagu, where protesters were expected to mobilise on the birth anniversary of 18th century ruler Tipu Sultan.

The JD(S)-Congress coalition government's decision to continue the practise of celebrating Tipu Jayanti, initiated under the erstwhile regime of Siddaramaiah, has enraged the BJP and its ideological affiliates in the region. Tipu Jayanti Celebrations Will Be Held, Despite BJP's Stiff Opposition: Karnataka Govt.

In view of the clashes which erupted on Tipu's birth centenary last year, the administration has issued prohibitory orders Kodagu, Hubli and Dharwad from 6 am on November 10 to 7 am on November 11.

Meanwhile, Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy announced today that he would not be attending the Tipu Jayanti celebrations, due to ill-health. The statement issued by his office claimed that the CM has been advised rest for three days.

The BJP was quick to point out the purported cracks within the coalition government, claiming that "pseudo-secularism" of the ruling alliance has been exposed.

"Kumaraswamy's absence from the event proves that he is not ideologically aligned with the Congress, but has only joined hands to grab power," BJP spokesperson S Prakash said.

While Kumaraswamy is abstaining from the event, he has told reporters that specific orders has been issued to the law and order department by the Chief Minister's Office to crackdown on all such elements which want to stoke tensions. "Our police officers will take care of the situation. Action will be taken against anyone interfering in a government function," he said.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Nov 09, 2018 08:15 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).