Bengaluru: Unfazed by the BJP’s opposition to the state celebrating Tipu Jayanti, the United Tipu Sultan Front has decided to not only participate in the official celebrations but also organise a much grander one of its own on November 20.
Speaking to Deccan Chronicle, chief of the Front, Sardar Qureshi said the Mysuru king’s appeal went beyond caste and community considering his contribution to society. "If they say he was anti-Hindu, we can give ample evidence to the contrary, including his contribution to the Sringeri Math. They may talk about Tipu converting Hindus to Islam, but then why did Srirangapatna have such few Muslims?” he asked.
Maintaining that the BJP was making an issue of Tipu Jayanti as it could find nothing else to focus on, he pointed out that its leaders too were invited to the celebrations. “If the BJP leaders want to boycott them, they can. Why make such a noise or create a scene?" he demanded.
As for the likelihood of any trouble at the event, he recalled that the government has already made it clear it would deal with mischief-makers with an iron hand. “Chief Minister
Siddaramaiah has promised the celebrations will be peaceful. Now the onus is on the government to make sure they are,” he said, adding that there would be no trouble from Muslim leaders on the occasion.
