Clashes During Ganesha Procession in Karnataka: Minister Denies Communal Violence

Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara has stated that the clashes during a Ganesha idol immersion procession in Nagamangala, Mandya district, were not communal violence but occurred 'on the spur of the moment.' Fifty-two people have been arrested, and police are maintaining control of the situation.

During a Ganesha idol immersion procession in Nagamangala, Mandya district, Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara denied labeling the clashes between two groups as 'communal violence,' attributing it to a 'spur of the moment' incident. He emphasized that 52 individuals have been arrested, with cases being registered based on CCTV footage of stone-pelting and arson.

The minister noted that although the incident shouldn't have happened, the situation is under control with no major injuries reported. The police acted swiftly, preventing further escalation. Senior officers and a Karnataka State Reserve Police (KSRP) platoon have been deployed to maintain order.

Parameshwara dismissed claims of pre-planning and political instigation, urging media to avoid sensationalism. He also addressed concerns regarding police precautions, stressing that their presence mitigated what could have been a more significant conflict. Investigations are ongoing.

(With inputs from agencies.)