Karnataka: Police assert peaceful and controlled situation in Shivamogga town

Representative image/iStock

The situation in Ragi Gudda area of Shivamogga, where prohibitory orders were imposed due to tensions during the Eid Milad procession and alleged incidents of stone pelting, has been restored to a peaceful and controlled state, confirmed the police.

Tension escalated in the Shivamogga town area following reported incidents of stone pelting on Sunday.

Shivamogga Superintendent of Police, G K Mithun Kumar, assured that the situation is now under control. He stated that there were injuries sustained by a few individuals, including the police, and some property damage during the incident.

"We have urged those affected to file complaints regarding injuries and property damage. We have already apprehended individuals involved in the incident. With the aid of videography, CCTV camera footage, and drone camera footage, we are committed to apprehending and ensuring appropriate punishment for all those involved," Kumar stated.

The SP emphasised that there is ample force, including the Karnataka State Reserve Police (KSRP), a unit of the Rapid Action Force (RAF), 900 home guards, 2,000 police staff, and senior officials, to effectively maintain law and order.

"We have implemented sufficient security measures. There should be no issues in Shivamogga city, and the situation is peaceful," he added.

As per the police, an enraged mob reportedly pelted stones at houses and vehicles, causing injuries to several individuals.

Police resorted to a lathi-charge to disperse the agitated crowd. Prior to the stone pelting incident on Sunday, protests had erupted in the Ragi Gudda area concerning a cutout displayed as part of the procession. Mithun Kumar and other police officers arrived at the scene and engaged in discussions with the public to restore peace and order."

(with inputs from PTI)