Ganesh Idol Procession Sparks Clashes in Mandya District, 52 Arrested

Clashes erupted during a Ganesh idol immersion procession in Mandya district, leading to vandalism and minor injuries. Police arrested 52 individuals and imposed prohibitory orders. Karnataka Chief Minister and Home Minister urged maintaining peace and condemned the violence. Opposition criticized the Congress government for alleged appeasement politics.

Clashes broke out between two groups during a Ganesh idol immersion procession here, leading to vandalism and arson targeting shops and vehicles, causing a tense situation.

Police reported 52 arrests following these incidents, with prohibitory orders in effect to prevent gatherings of more than four people in this town in Mandya district until September 14. Several minor injuries occurred during the stone-pelting, but authorities have since brought the situation under control with additional security forces deployed.

An altercation between two groups escalated into violence when the Ganesh idol procession from Badarikoppalu village reached a place of worship, resulting in thrown stones and subsequent chaos. Authorities used mild force to disperse the crowd and manage the situation.

Following the clashes, a youth group halted the procession to protest at the police station, demanding immediate arrests. Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah criticized the violence as acts of miscreants and assured strict action against those dividing society on religious grounds, regardless of caste or religion.

Home Minister G Parameshwara stated that the incident was not pre-planned but occurred spontaneously, emphasizing that police efforts prevented further escalation. The police named 53 individuals in the FIR, and the situation has since returned to normal with additional forces deployed for security.

The opposition, including BJP and JD(S), criticized the Congress government, claiming the violence stemmed from appeasement politics. BJP's R Ashoka claimed an attack on the Ganesh idol procession, while JD(S) leader H D Kumaraswamy cited the incident as proof of law and order failure and warned of dire political consequences for continued appeasement.

(With inputs from agencies.)