CHIKKAMAGALURU: An old tree, considered sacred by the Muslim community, became the target of miscreants who set fire to its base at Adi Shakti Nagar on the outskirts of the town on Monday night. The incident has sparked outrage in the village.
Locals claim that the tree has been worshipped for over a hundred years every day and an annual fair is also held. They said flags and other paraphernalia kept at the base of the tree have been burnt in the incident. They also said that this has been done to disturb peace in the region.
On receiving information, the police immediately reached the spot and prevented the issue from going out of control. Superintendent of Police Akshay assured the villagers of a fair probe into the incident.
“The fire may have been accidental or even deliberate. We got information around 10.30 am on Tuesday. We have spoken to the leaders, gram panchayat members and others in Adi Shakti Nagar regarding the incident. They have said that the tree was revered by both Hindus and Muslims and offered prayers”, the SP said.
“We will investigate whether this was a deliberate act or an accident. It has come to our attention that some people are spreading rumours that there were holy books at the base of the tree and were burnt. But locals too have confirmed that there was no holy book at the site”, the SP added.
While some locals insist that holy books were kept at the base of the tree, others have denied it.
Residents of Adi Shakti Nagar have demanded strict action against those responsible for the fire. A case has been registered at the Chikkamagaluru Town police station and further investigations are on.