Bangalore:
In the wake of reports about African nationals allegedly being denied entry into some pubs, the Karnataka government has said action would be taken against those who indulge in racist practices.
"I am against racism. Nobody should indulge in it. I have already instructed police to investigate and take stringent action," Chief Minister B S Yeddyurappa said.
"We will not allow such things. Stern action would be taken against those who indulged in it," he said.
He said as per his enquiries there was no truth in reports that pubs have denied entry to African nationals.
Asked whether such incidents would dent the image of the city, known for its cosmopolitan character and IT hub, Yeddyurappa said, "We will not allow the image of Bangalore to be affected."
Yeddyurappa said the government was committed to the safety and security of all foreign nationals.
Meanwhile, the Association of Pubs, Bars and Restaurants in Bangalore today denied such a practise but admitted the possibility over "security reasons".
"We do not discriminate entry of anyone on the basis of creed, colour or caste. However, it depends on some individual pubs, which might have denied entry on security reasons," Association President Ashish Kothare said.
Kothare said following some indecent behaviour by an individual or a group, a pub or some pubs might have asked them not to return as such incidents should not affect their business.
However, he denied knowledge of pubs which have shut their doors to people on the basis of their "colour".
"Business means income. It does not have colour. Who does not want income" Kothare added.