Clashes during Ganesha immersion procession in Mandya’s Nagamangala; 40 held
Authorities have enforced prohibitory orders in Nagamangala, Mandya district, Karnataka, after violent clashes erupted during a Ganesha immersion procession.Deputy Commissioner Dr. Kumar confirmed that 40 individuals have been taken into custody in connection with the unrest that escalated into stone-pelting and vandalism.
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Tensions escalated in Nagamangala town, Mandya district, Karnataka, following violent clashes during a Ganesha immersion procession on the night of September 11, 2024. Prohibitory orders have been imposed in the area to prevent further unrest, as local authorities work to restore peace.
The clashes reportedly began when participants of the Ganesha procession, which included devotees from Badarikoppalu, encountered a group near a mosque. An argument erupted, leading to stone-pelting and escalating violence. Eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene where both sides exchanged stones, resulting in significant damage, including the destruction of several shops and vehicles. Reports indicate that at least 25 shops were set on fire, and multiple vehicles were damaged during the incident.
In response to the violence, Deputy Commissioner of Mandya, Dr. Kumar, confirmed that 40 individuals have been detained as a preventive measure. The police have since increased security, deploying additional forces from Mysuru and Hassan to sensitive areas. The situation is now reported to be under control, with police actively monitoring the town.
Karnataka Home Minister Dr. Parameshwara characterized the stone-pelting as an "accidental" incident and emphasized that law enforcement had been present to manage the crowd. However, criticisms have emerged regarding the local government’s handling of the situation. Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy condemned the violence, accusing the ruling Congress government of failing to maintain order and protect citizens. He stated that the incident reflects a broader issue of communal tensions in the region, exacerbated by political dynamics.
The Superintendent of Police, Mallikarjun Baladandi, noted that the procession had paused near the mosque, which contributed to the confrontation. He confirmed that the police had attempted to mediate but were forced to intervene with a baton charge to disperse the crowd.
In light of the unrest, local educational institutions have been closed, and officials are convening peace meetings to address community concerns and restore calm. The incident has raised alarms about communal harmony in Karnataka, prompting calls for immediate action against those responsible for the violence.
