Clash breaks out between two communities over construction of Valmiki Bhavan in Bailhongal village

BELAGAVI; A violent clash broke out in Deshanur village in Bailhongal taluk over the construction of a Valmiki community hall on government land. The dispute is between the SC and ST communities.

Trouble started when a group opposed the survey team conducting measurements for the community hall. The situation escalated into a violent confrontation, with one group attacking the house of Sadashiva Bhajantri, damaging property, and threatening the occupants. The attackers, allegedly from the ST community, pelted stones at the house, broke doors, and assaulted the family members.

The police intervened, and the situation was brought under control. A woman police sub-inspector from Nesargi police station arrived at the scene and managed to calm down the situation. Police Superintendent K Ramarajan also visited the spot and assured action against those involved. Two platoons of KSRP have been deployed, and police are patrolling the village to maintain law and order.

The ST community is demanding action against Sadashiva Bhajantri, who allegedly opposed the community hall construction, calling it an encroachment on their land. The police have registered cases from both sides and are investigating. The incident has created tension in the village, with both communities seeking action and to resolve the issue peacefully. The villagers are demanding that the community hall be constructed without any hindrance.