Karnataka- Bengaluru: Karnataka Home Minister Araga Jnanendra asked the Congress party to abandon its padayatra plan and "behave resposibly" following an increase in COVID-19 cases in the state.

Jnanendra also urged that the Mekedatu project be implemented, and to cooperate with the government to combat COVID-19's third wave. Karnataka's Congress party has planned to start a padayatra on January 9.

Jnanendra further said,  "The padayatra is being organised for political reasons, and Congress should act responsibly. The government is doing everything it can to stop the virus from spreading."  The minister went on to say, "The state has implemented weekend and night curfews. People should cooperate with the police and avoid going out late at night."

The minister further stated that individuals who break the COVID-19 norms will face consequences.

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