Bengaluru: As many as 35 Left and Muslim groups began their peace rally in Bengaluru in protest against the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019, on Monday, December 23.

As assured by Bengaluru City Commissioner of Police Bhaskar Rao, section 144 of the CrPC, that was imposed on the city for the past few days, was lifted on Saturday midnight. The police have, however, asked the people to maintain law and order.

According to reports, the rally will be held at the Khuddus Saheb Eidgah grounds on Miller’s Road. Over 50,000 people are participating in the protest.

Heightened security

Karnataka Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa met with DG-IGP Neelamani Raju and instructed her to take all necessary precautions. He also told her to ensure that there is no “repeat” of what occurred in Mangaluru city just a few days ago. It can be recalled that two persons were shot dead during police firing when violence broke out due to clashes between the police and protesters.

To prepare for this, 53 Karnataka State Reserve Police and 60 platoons have been deployed in the city to ensure that no untoward incidents occur. Two companies of CISF are also monitoring the situation. Security has been heightened in several areas of the city that are considered sensitive.

Traffic restrictions

The police have restricted traffic movement in and around the Cantonment area and many diversions are in place. Restrictions have been placed especially on Miller’s Road and Nandidurga Road.