Chikkamagaluru, February 17: Tension escalated in the Vijayanagar area of Chikkamagaluru, Karnataka, on Tuesday. Reports indicate that individuals from one community have been pelting stones at the homes of another community for the past week. In response, police registered two separate FIRs on Tuesday.
The incident has sparked political controversy. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has warned that if the stone-pelters are not apprehended soon, the party will take action. Meanwhile, the Socialist Democratic Party of India (SDPI) claims that the situation is being exaggerated. They have called for action against BJP and Bajrang Dal activists for allegedly attacking members of the other community.
The FIR was filed based on a complaint from the homeowner, Sudha, against two accused, Hussain and Riyan, under various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) including 310(2), 62, and 352. Additionally, cases were registered under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, sections 3(1)(r)(s) and 3(2).
In a counter case, two individuals named Shyam and Santosh were charged with assault under IPC sections 115(2), 118(1), 351(2), and 352, along with section 3(5). Reports suggest that Shyam is associated with the Bajrang Dal, while Santosh is the district president of the BJP’s youth wing in Chikkamagaluru.
Santosh stated that a gang, including a minor, has been deliberately targeting certain homes. He alleged that when the woman of the house confronted the youths, they misbehaved and attempted to attack her.
According to Santosh, one accused has been apprehended, while others fled the scene. He emphasized that the stone-pelting appears to be a premeditated act and demanded the immediate arrest of those responsible.
He also mentioned that the arrested individual’s associates gathered later to attempt a rescue, but local residents intervened and handed the accused over to the police.
In response to the allegations, SDPI leader Munir stated that a minor incident led to an attack on some youths. He demanded strict action against those responsible. Munir asserted that if anyone has thrown stones, they must face the law, emphasizing that women deserve respect in all religions. He warned of strong protests if no action is taken against those who assaulted the youths.
Reports indicate that two young men from the minority community were caught by locals and some Hindu activists, assaulted, and then handed over to the police. Meanwhile, four other youths fled the scene on Monday night. A heated argument occurred between Bajrang Dal and SDPI activists outside the Basavanahalli police station, prompting increased security in the area.
Local residents reported that unidentified individuals had been throwing stones at a house near Tilak Park in the Vijayanagar area during the day and night for the past week, instilling fear in the family residing there. On Monday night, locals apprehended one accused while others escaped. The atmosphere became tense after activists from Hindu organizations and SDPI gathered near the police station.
Sudha, the complainant, expressed her distress over the repeated stone-pelting, which has left her family living in fear. She noted that during the day, only her mother and sister are home, as she is at work. On Monday night, when her mother and sister confronted the boys outside, a heated argument ensued. The homeowner, Gagan, alleged that the boys misbehaved and attempted to assault the women when confronted.
Members of the Bajrang Dal claimed they apprehended some accused and handed them over to the police. Conversely, SDPI leaders accused the activists of attacking Muslim youths without justification. Two injured Muslim youths were admitted to Malle Gowda Government District Hospital for treatment. Community leaders alleged that these youths were assaulted by Bajrang Dal and BJP activists.
The police stated that an investigation is ongoing and additional forces have been deployed in the area to maintain law and order. CCTV footage related to the stone-pelting incident has been secured by the police for examination.
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My name is Himanshu Tiwari. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including TECHNOLOGY, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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