Bengaluru, Dec 31 (NationPress) Karnataka's Home Minister, G. Parameshwara, urged citizens to embrace a responsible celebration of the New Year, emphasizing that security measures have been significantly heightened.

Addressing journalists in Bengaluru, Parameshwara stated, “We encourage everyone to celebrate the New Year responsibly. Our message today is clear: ‘Celebrate responsibly’. The Bengaluru Police have implemented necessary steps to ensure the safety of all and guarantee a peaceful celebration this New Year’s Eve.”

“We have undertaken various measures and have informed the public accordingly. Our request is for everyone to celebrate in a peaceful manner. This is our appeal to the residents of Bengaluru,” he added.

Parameshwara revealed that the police have pinpointed 150 locations across Bengaluru for security checks. “Celebrations will be permitted up to a specific limit. Exceeding that limit can lead to dangerous situations. Drivers may lose their reflexes and struggle to operate vehicles safely, resulting in potential accidents. This could lead to unnecessary loss of life and pose risks to others,” he mentioned.

“Controlling such activities for a few days can indeed save lives. Given the circumstances, these measures are crucial. Overcrowding must be assessed from various perspectives, especially concerning the threat of terrorism. The Bengaluru Police are well-prepared to take necessary actions,” he stated.

He confirmed that police officers are mandated to wear body-worn cameras. “Every action will be recorded and linked directly to the command center. Additional forces will be deployed if necessary. All arrangements have been made in a systematic and scientific manner,” he said.

Parameshwara noted that bars have been assigned specific operating hours. “They are required to close by 1 AM. Non-compliance will result in legal action against them,” he remarked.

“Restrictions have been imposed in certain areas where public celebrations occur on the streets. Many individuals from outside Bengaluru come to join the New Year festivities, often making locals a minority. Naturally, people indulge in drinking, celebrations, and exchanging greetings. Midnight gatherings can lead to pushing and jostling, potentially resulting in incidents. The police have thus implemented precautionary measures,” he explained.

Discussing governance, Parameshwara asserted, “By 2026, Karnataka should set the benchmark as a model state. While there may be some challenges, our focus remains on delivering good governance. We have made numerous promises that we intend to fulfill. Our performance in the last two-and-a-half years has been commendable, and we aim for even better governance in the upcoming period.”

Responding to comments regarding a BJP delegation visiting the demolition site at Kogilu Layout amidst ongoing controversies, he stated, “They can visit. Instead of politicizing the matter, they should offer constructive suggestions to the government. We have acted in the best interest of the underprivileged. If they wish to politicize it, we are prepared for that. Whenever aid is provided to the underprivileged, opposition parties often raise issues.”

“They seem displeased when assistance is extended to those in need. Yes, the land was previously occupied illegally. Now, those individuals have been evicted, and the government is providing rehabilitation on humanitarian grounds. What is inappropriate about this? There are claims of outsiders or individuals from Pakistan being involved. I doubt any responsible individual would make such allegations,” he remarked.

In response to further inquiries, Parameshwara stated that an investigation by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) is unnecessary. “Our state possesses the capability to manage this situation. Both opposition figures have a responsibility. Making statements without accurate information or evidence is not responsible,” he concluded.