Communal tension erupted in Karnataka’s Bagalkot city on Thursday evening, following a stone-pelting incident during a Shivaji Jayanti procession.
The procession, organized by members of the Maratha community to commemorate the birth anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, culminated in allegations that handcarts parked near a mosque were set ablaze by Hindu groups.
The procession started at Ambabhavani Temple within the fort area and moved along the main road toward Basaveshwar Circle before turning back towards the fort via Vallabhbhai Chowk. The incident has led to increased security in the area as a precautionary measure, with police using mild force to restore order.
Leaders of Hindutva organizations have called for strict action against those responsible for the stone-pelting incident, which has left the atmosphere in the area tense. Bagalkot SP Siddharth Goyal has promised that those responsible will be identified and legal action will be taken. He stated, “Stone pelting took place during the (Chhatrapati Shivaji Jayanti) procession. Stones were also hurled towards us. But no one was injured. We will arrest the culprits and take strict action.”
The situation remains under close watch, with authorities assuring that appropriate measures are being taken to maintain peace and order in Bagalkot city.
