The Karnataka Police on Thursday arrested 46 individuals following communal clashes that erupted in Mandya district during a Ganesh Chaturthi procession. The violence took place in the village of Badarikoppalu on Wednesday, September 11, when tensions flared between two groups during the religious event.
The clashes reportedly began when stones were thrown at participants of the Ganpati procession, allegedly from near a local mosque. In response, several Hindu youths staged a protest by placing the Ganesha idol in front of the local police station, demanding swift action. The protest escalated as a group of agitators set fire to a few shops and torched tyres, intensifying the unrest in the area.
Relatives of those arrested gathered in front of the police station, demanding the immediate release of their family members. “Our people did nothing wrong. They were arrested for no reason,” said one of the protesters, expressing frustration over the arrests.
Police officials clarified that the individuals were brought in for questioning. “We have brought them in for questioning. Those who have done nothing wrong will be released,” stated a police official. Authorities have since declared a high alert in the area, enforcing Section 163 of the Bhartiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita to prevent further violence and restore order.
As the situation remains tense, the police continue to monitor the area closely to ensure peace is maintained.