Bengaluru, Mar 3 (NationPress) The Karnataka administration stated on Tuesday that it would investigate and take action if any legal violations were detected during the protests in Bengaluru condemning the assassination of Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

In conversations with the media in Bengaluru, State Home Minister G. Parameshwara emphasized that the law applies equally to all, and any infraction would result in consequences.

Regarding the protests, he remarked, "If they intended to protest, it should have occurred at Freedom Park. The participation of MLAs does not exempt anyone from compliance with the law. We must consider pursuing legal action if there is any infringement," he stated.

When queried about reports suggesting that the central government had directed states to keep an eye on protests against Khamenei's death, Parameshwara mentioned that he lacked specific information.

"It might have been communicated to the Chief Secretary or the Home Department. If there were any directives, the Director General would have informed me. I have only encountered media reports that indicated those who support Ayatollah Khamenei would be observed. I have not received any formal updates," he noted.

On whether he had given any directions concerning this matter, the Minister clarified that there was no alarming situation at present. "If anything comes to our attention, we will take action," he added.

Labeling the issue as one of geopolitics, Parameshwara remarked that foreign policy is determined by the central government, with states adhering to its directives.

In response to inquiries about the Congress party's concerns regarding the timing of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s foreign trips and the bombings in Iran, Parameshwara opted not to comment.

He also refrained from addressing Sonia Gandhi’s critiques of the Prime Minister, asserting that it was a national and international issue beyond state jurisdiction.

Discussing the situation of Kannadigas in the Middle East amidst the ongoing conflict involving Israel, the United States, and Iran, Parameshwara stated that the state government has reached out to the central government seeking assistance for stranded Indians, including Kannadigas.

“Thousands are employed in the Middle East. Some have resided there for 10 to 20 years, while others have traveled for vacations, business, or meetings. Those unsure of whom to contact are the ones in need of help,” he explained.

He mentioned that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and the Chief Secretary of Karnataka had contacted the Government of India requesting assistance for stranded individuals, aiming to ensure their safe return to the state. “Many Indians are in such a predicament, and all must be safely repatriated. We are hopeful that all our Kannadigas will return home safely,” he stated.

Parameshwara indicated that there has been no official communication regarding casualties or injuries resulting from the conflict. “The Ministry of External Affairs has not conveyed any official update. Without that, it would merely be speculation,” he said.

He added that even some legislators were reportedly in the affected region, and efforts were underway to reach them.

Referring to JD(S) MLC S.L. Bhojegowda, Parameshwara mentioned that he had conversed with him and learned that a missile had landed near his location, prompting him and others to move to bunkers before returning safely.

The Minister also noted that Ronald Colaco, residing in Dubai, had provided his contact information to those seeking help. “I attempted to reach him, but it has been challenging due to network disruptions,” he said.

The state administration assured that it continues to monitor the situation and remains in contact with the central government regarding the safety and evacuation of Kannadigas from the conflict-affected area.