52 Arrested After Riot During Ganpati Procession in Karnataka's Mandya

52 people were arrested and educational institutions closed in Nagamangala, Karnataka, following riots during a Ganpati procession. No injuries were reported, but vehicles and shops were set on fire. Police have imposed prohibitory orders as investigations continue.

In a volatile incident in Nagamangala, Karnataka's Mandya district, 52 individuals were taken into custody following riots that erupted over allegations of stone pelting at a Ganpati immersion procession. Karnataka Home Minister G Parmeshwar confirmed that despite the chaos, no injuries were reported. 'Yesterday's incident shouldn't have happened. Fortunately, no injuries occurred, and the situation is now under control,' said Parmeshwar. 'During the procession, there was stone pelting, and later, vehicles were set on fire. No harm has happened.'

Superintendent of Police Mallikarjun Baladandi elaborated that the clash began when the Ganapati procession paused in front of a Dargh, leading to a heated word exchange with another group. The police initially cleared the situation, but tensions flared again, resulting in the Ganpati group protesting in front of the Nagamangala station. The police ultimately allowed the procession to continue, but stone-throwing and arson ensued, affecting several bikes and small shops.

Following the unrest, prohibitory orders were imposed in Nagamangala by the police to maintain control. 'Prohibitory orders were imposed after miscreants set shops on fire, and two police staff were injured. An investigation is underway, and restriction orders will continue,' stated Inspector General of Police MB Boralingaiah. BJP MLC CT Ravi criticized the state government for alleged negligence and called for stringent action against the perpetrators.

(With inputs from agencies.)