Karnataka came to a standstill on Friday after farmers' groups and activists called a statewide bandh against the Supreme court's order asking the Siddaramaiah government to release water from the Cauvery river to Tamil Nadu. Protests were reported from various parts of the state. Schools, colleges and corporate offices were forced to remain shut as private and public vehicles stayed off the roads.

Busy shopping streets in major towns lay deserted. IANS photo
Sporadic protests were held as most vehicles stayed off roads. IANS photo
Locals said shutdown was largely peaceful, barring a few stray incidents. IANS photo
The Bangalore metro was closed for the day. IANS photo
Several commuters were stranded at Kempegowda bus station, as travelling in and out of the state became difficult. IANS photo

The Kannada film industry joined in the protests.