SHIVAMOGGA, BENGALURU: Prohibitory orders under Section 144 of IPC have been imposed in the city after violence and stone-throwing during the Eid Milad processions on Sunday, which left many, including policemen, injured and several houses and vehicles damaged. The police had to resort to lathicharge to disperse the crowds.
So far, more than 43 people have been arrested and the police have tightened security. They are also making public announcements against venturing into the streets in groups and warning people in Ragigudda, Shantinagar and Tipu Nagar areas. The police were also checking all vehicles moving on the roads in the city.
On Sunday, several youths were seen brandishing swords during the Eid Milad processions even as the police remained mute spectators, leading to questions being raised about their inaction.
In Bengaluru, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said today that more than 43 people have been arrested in connection with the violence and that the situation was peaceful now. “Some miscreants started pelting stones in which some police personnel were also injured. Hence, the police had to resort to lathicharge. Cases have been registered against those who indulged in stone-throwing and violence and our government will not tolerate such acts. The police have taken steps to maintain peace”, he said.
The CM also denied that the violence was caused by people who came from outside. “The situation is now under control and I appeal to people to maintain peace”, he added.
In the violence, more than seven houses of Hindus were damaged, causing huge losses, while several people were also injured. They are being treated at the McGann Hospital in the city. Several vehicles including autorickshaws and cars were also pelted with stones.
Locals say that those who indulged in stone-throwing had covered their faces and seemed determined to cause deaths. The scared residents of Ragigudda said over 500 people, some with their faces covered in green cloth, suddenly barged and started pelting stones. Hindu families in the area have sought protection and demanded action against the perpetrators of violence.