Bengaluru

Breaking his silence on the campaign against Minorities by of some groups raising objection to the use of loudspeakers in mosques, Karnataka Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai said that everyone is equal before the government and loudspeakers in mosques will not be forcibly removed.

"No individual or organization will be allowed to take law into their own hands and all steps will be taken to ensure peace," he said.

He further said that the ruling BJP enjoys the support of the people. He said he would organize more pro-people events in the coming days and that mere issuing of statements would not solve the crisis.

Referring to the rising demand for a ban on Muslim shopkeepers or traders in temples and religious fairs and a ban on the use of loudspeakers in mosques, he said, "There are many things behind these developments. Orders on it were given in 2001-02. The ruling BJP has not passed any order. We will keep everything in mind and take a decision."

Speaking about the controversy over use of loudspeakers over 'Azaan', Bommai said that the apex court has already issued an order in this regard. He said, "There is also another order why his orders are not being implemented. There is a decibel (measurement of sound intensity) limit and there is an order to buy a decibel meter."

CM Bommai further said, "This is the work which has to be done by taking everyone into confidence. It cannot be forced. Meetings are being held by the police at the ground level with the community leaders. This will be done in future also." And action will also be taken."

Commenting on the cabinet expansion, Bommai said the issue is likely to be discussed during the meeting with Union Home Minister Amit Shah and BJP President JP Nadda.

He also met Telangana State Municipal Administration and Urban Development Minister K. Also reacted to the comment made by T. Rama Rao. Rama Rao had said in a tweet that in view of the poor infrastructure in Bengaluru, entrepreneurs should pack their bags and come to Hyderabad. Commenting on this, Bommai said that the tweet by Telangana minister Rama Rao is ridiculous.

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He said, "People from all over the world are coming to Bengaluru. There are a lot of unicorns and startups in Bengaluru."