52 Detained After Communal Clashes in Mandya During Ganpati Procession: A Closer Look at the Violence

52 Detained After Communal Clashes in Mandya During Ganpati Procession: A Closer Look at the Violence

On September 11, 2024, Mandya district in Karnataka witnessed a disturbing outbreak of communal violence during a Ganpati procession in the Nagamangala area. The clashes, which erupted between two groups, led to significant property damage and prompted authorities to impose strict curfews and detain 52 individuals.

The Incident

The violence began when a Ganpati idol immersion procession, originating from Badri Koppalu village, encountered tensions as it passed near a mosque on Mysuru Road. Reports indicate that stones were allegedly thrown at the procession from the vicinity of the mosque, igniting a chaotic confrontation between the two communities. Eyewitness accounts suggest that the procession halted for several minutes, leading to heated exchanges and escalating tensions.As the situation deteriorated, participants from both sides engaged in stone-pelting, resulting in injuries to two police personnel and damage to several vehicles and shops. Mandya Superintendent of Police (SP) Mallikarjun Baladandi reported that approximately seven motorcycles and six small shops were set ablaze during the unrest.

Police Response and Curfew

In response to the violence, local authorities swiftly imposed prohibitory orders under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) to prevent further escalation. The curfew will remain in effect until September 14, with police patrolling the streets to maintain order. SP Baladandi confirmed that the situation is now under control, with additional security forces deployed to sensitive areas.The Karnataka Home Minister, G Parameshwara, stated that the police are reviewing CCTV footage to identify further suspects involved in the violence. He reassured the public that those detained would only be charged if their involvement in the riots is substantiated.

Community Reactions

The clashes have sparked outrage and concern within the local communities. Members of the Hindu community gathered outside the police station, demanding immediate action against those responsible for the violence. Meanwhile, the Muslim community expressed grievances regarding the procession’s route and the perceived provocations during the event.Mandya MP and Union Minister HD Kumaraswamy attributed the unrest to political motivations, alleging that the Congress party’s “appeasement” of certain communities contributed to the tensions. He called for peace and unity among the residents of Mandya.

Conclusion

The communal clashes in Mandya during the Ganpati procession serve as a stark reminder of the fragile communal harmony in certain regions of India. As the authorities work to restore order and investigate the incident, it is crucial for community leaders and residents to engage in dialogue to address grievances and prevent future conflicts. The situation remains tense, and the coming days will be critical in determining the path forward for Mandya’s communities.