BELAGAVI: A statue of the revolutionary hero Sangolli Rayanna was found ‘desecrated’ in Machche village in the district, sparking widespread outrage.
Some miscreants allegedly threw a black oily substance at the statue, prompting locals to accuse them of attempting to create unrest and disturb communal harmony, especially on the eve of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti celebrations.
The statue of Sangolli Rayanna, was installed three years ago in Machche village, thanks to the efforts of local Kannada activists. Locals claim that the vandalism was intentional, and they have demanded strict action against the perpetrators.
However, the police are skeptical about the claims, suggesting that the substance might be a natural resin from a nearby tree, citing the presence of leaves and twigs stuck to the statue. They have taken samples of the substance for forensic analysis and are examining CCTV footage to identify the culprits.
Police Commissioner Bhushan Gulabrao Borase visited the scene and assured that the matter is being taken seriously. The police have registered a case and are investigating the incident. The situation is tense in the village, with locals demanding justice and the police working to restore calm.
The incident has raised concerns about law and order in the area, with some questioning whether it was an attempt to create unrest and disturb communal harmony. The police have assured that they will take strict action against those responsible, once the forensic report is available.
