Opinion - Letters to the Editor   

Unfortunate violence

The undeclared bandh in Bangalore that followed the death of the Kannada superstar is unfortunate. Shops and establishments downed their shutters fearing hooliganism. Everyone was reminded of the mindless damage caused to public and private property when Rajkumar was kidnapped by Veerappan in 2000. If the people really want to show reverence to a great personality, they should do so by peaceful means. Not by blocking roads, burning buses and tyres, paralysing traffic and harassing the citizens.

Nitin Ashok,
Bangalore

Rajkumar's demise comes as a shock. Equally shocking was the attitude of those resorting to violence and mobbing the police.

S. Ananthi,
Hyderabad

Rajkumar died a natural death after living a complete and glorious life. He would have certainly desired a more disciplined farewell from his fans. Unfortunately, what should have been a solemn and dignified occasion turned into an event that all would like to forget. The police should have foreseen huge crowds and made adequate security arrangements.

It has become routine for anti-social elements to assume control whenever a prominent politician or film personality passes away. They enforce bandhs, and forcibly down shutters. People should behave in a more sober and civilised manner, which would be a fitting tribute to the departed soul.

K. Venkataraman,
Mumbai

The outbreak of violence in Bangalore was unfortunate and not in accordance with the social values of the city. We the people of a country that boasts of democratic values should know how to handle the freedom we enjoy responsibly.

Lukose Thomas,
Mysore

Rajkumar was not just a veteran actor but one of the greatest sons of India who was almost worshipped by millions of Kannadigas. But what objective is achieved by destroying public and private property? Is this the way to show respect for him?

T. Vasanthi,
Chidambaram, T.N.

The death of Rajkumar, a versatile hero of the Kannada film industry, has understandably plunged his ardent fans and supporters in shock and grief. But one finds it difficult to accept the violence that erupted.

S. Ramakrishnasayee,
Ranipet, T.N.

Millions of Kannadigas mourn the demise of an institution called Rajkumar. He brought back war heroes, mythological characters, and saints on the silver screen with reverence. Alas, hooligans in the garb of fans indulged in mindless violence.

B.V. Prasanna Kumar,
Hyderabad

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