BJP seeks ban on actor Shivarajkumar's movies, ads and billboards until end of LS polls
Bengaluru: BJP on Friday requested the Election Commission to prohibit display of films, advertisements, and billboards of actor Shivarajkumar who it claimed is campaigning for the Congress in the run-up to the Lok Sabha polls. His wife, Geetha Shivarajkumar is the Congress candidate in the Shimoga Lok Sabha constituency for the coming polls and the actor was earlier this week seen campaigning for her.
In a letter to the poll body, the Karnataka State President of BJP OBC Morcha Wing and senior BJP leader R Raghu stated that Shivarajkumar, being a prominent figure in the state and currently engaged in a "statewide election campaign for the Congress party", holds significant influence over the populace through his cinematic work and "public persona."
"While we respect his right to participate in the democratic process, it is imperative to maintain a level playing field and prevent undue advantage or influence during the election period," Raghu said.
ALSO READ: Actor Shivaraj Kumar campaigns for Shivamogga Congress candidate, wife Geeta
Given his significant influence and popularity, he earnestly requested the EC to take immediate action by issuing an order to cinema halls, TV channels, social media platforms, and local organizations to refrain from displaying any films, advertisements, or billboards featuring Shivrajkumar until the conclusion of the polls.
"We are examining it (the letter)," the Chief Electoral Officer of Karnataka, Manoj Kumar Meena, told PTI.
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Leopard strays into house near Bengaluru, family locks it inside
Bengaluru, Apr 3 (PTI): A family in Jigani on the outskirts of Bengaluru had a close encounter with a leopard that wandered into their home on Thursday morning. Acting swiftly, they locked the big cat inside and escaped unhurt, a forest official confirmed.
The incident occurred at Pilla Reddy Layout, where Venkatesh, his wife Venkatalakshmi, and their son Nikhil reside in a rented house.
Jigani, located near the forested Bannerghatta National Park, frequently sees wildlife movement, including leopards and elephants, the forest official added.
As the family prepared for the day, they were startled to find the leopard inside their home.
Overcoming their initial panic, they managed to rush out and secure the door from the outside.
Venkatesh then alerted neighbours and informed the police and forest department.
A forest team promptly arrived, tranquilised the animal, and safely caged it.
Meanwhile, a large crowd gathered to witness the rescue operation.
Police were deployed to maintain order and prevent any untoward incidents.
