Tension prevailed in Bagalkote town after stones and footwear were allegedly hurled at a Shivaji Jayanti procession passing through the Killa Oni locality by the radical Islamic elements on the night of February 19. The procession, organized to commemorate Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, was moving through the area amid celebrations when the incident occurred, triggering panic among participants and prompting immediate police intervention.
Alleged gathering near Mosque raises questions
According to reports, a large number of Islamist youths had gathered inside and around a nearby mosque shortly before the procession reached the area. Allegations have surfaced that hundreds of individuals assembled at the location, leading to questions about the circumstances under which the crowd formed during the procession. Police are currently verifying these claims as part of the ongoing investigation.
Objection over music led to tension
As per News 18 Kannada, sources indicated that objections were raised to the DJ music being played during the procession. The situation soon escalated into confrontation, following which stones and slippers were allegedly thrown toward the procession by the Islamists. Participants reportedly ran for safety as chaos briefly gripped the area before police restored order.
Drone footage and video evidence under examination
Investigators are analyzing drone camera footage and mobile videos that reportedly captured Islamist groups assembling near the mosque premises. Officials stated that visual evidence may help determine how the violence unfolded and identify additional persons involved. Reports suggest stones kept near a shoe rack were allegedly used during the attack, though police have yet to confirm the details conclusively.
Eight arrested; key suspect under custody
Police have arrested eight Islamist individuals in connection with the stone-pelting incident and initiated detailed questioning. One suspect, identified as Tanzeer, has been accused of throwing stones toward the procession while celebrations were underway. Authorities have indicated that more arrests may follow after verification of digital evidence and witness statements.
As a precautionary measure, prohibitory orders have been imposed in sensitive areas, including Bagalkote town, Navanagar, and Vidyagiri. Security deployment has been intensified across the region to prevent further disturbances. Later in the night, unidentified Islamic miscreants allegedly set fire to pushcarts in the local vegetable market, adding to the tense atmosphere.
SP Siddharth Goyal injured during bandobast
Bagalkote Superintendent of Police Siddharth Goyal, who was present at the spot overseeing security arrangements, confirmed that stones were thrown during the incident and that he himself was struck by one. He stated that two stones had been thrown and police were verifying their origin. Officials confirmed that no major injuries were reported.
Police have registered a case and assured strict action against those responsible. Authorities said the incident occurred between 9:30 PM and 10:00 PM, after the evening namaz had concluded. Investigators are examining all available video evidence and have appealed to the public to maintain peace and avoid spreading rumors while the probe continues.
Where is law and order in Karnataka under the Congress government? What are the police doing? Such incidents clearly show administrative failure. In recent times, several similar incidents have taken place, raising serious concerns about the safety of Hindus in Karnataka. Many people feel that Hindus are increasingly becoming targets while radical elements act without fear.
If the same kind of incident had happened during an Eid procession, it would immediately have been called an attack on secularism. But now, when Hindu processions are disrupted, where is that concern? Are Hindus expected to remain silent and keep sacrificing their rights? Nobody seems willing to question this growing imbalance.
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