Belagavi/Mudhol, 30: Communal violence that broke out in Mudhol of Bagalkot district during a Ganapati immersion procession last week, continued to spread in other parts of Karnataka. Tension gripped Belagavi city following eruption of violence in communally-sensitive areas of the city late on Monday night.

Window panes of several houses were shattered in stone-pelting in several areas during the intervening night of Monday and Tuesday. Stones were also pelted on a traffic police vehicle.
Communal clashes had erupted in Chikkodi in Belagavi, and Mudhol in Bagalkot district, in the last fortnight.
Following the incident at Belagavi on Monday night, police burst tear-gas shells to disperse the violent and unruly groups. One person was admitted to hospital.
Market Police Inspector Ramesh Gokak also sustained minor injuries. Eyewitness accounts said stones suddenly started raining on their houses around midnight, with the attackers shouting provocative slogans. A pile of stones of similar size were found in Kadak galli, suggesting a planned attack.
Police Commissioner S. Ravi said investigations had been taken up to ascertain the exact reason. Cases were booked against around 80 persons.
Two cops suspended in Mudhol
Following the Mudhol communal violence that took place last Wednesday, Inspector General of Police (Northern Range) Umesh Kumar has ordered the suspension of Circle Police Inspector R.K. Patil and Sub-Inspector D.K. Patil of Mudhol police station on the charges of dereliction of duty.
Mr. Kumar said that the officials in question failed to discharge their duty properly and did not follow the directions towards preventing the riots and controlling the incident.
“We have issued suspension order on Tuesday itself,” he said, and added that similar action could be taken against a few more police personnel in the coming days.
Superintendent of Police (SP) Yuda Martin Marbaniang said that 69 persons were arrested so far over the violence and if required, more people would be arrested.
Meanwhile, he urged the people to disclose to the police the names of the miscreants who could have been involved in the incident. “One need not reveal the identity while sharing the name of the miscreant. We will take the necessary action if the information is credible,” the SP said.
He has also warned people from sharing any pictures on social media that could create communal tension in the district, mainly in Mudhol town.



Comments
Add new comment