Haveri: Eight people were injured after a clash broke out during the Kar Hunnime festival celebrations in Naregal village of Hangal taluk following a dispute over bursting crackers near a mosque. Police have clarified that the incident was not communal in nature and said the situation in the village is now peaceful.
The altercation occurred during a traditional cattle procession held as part of the Kar Hunnime celebrations on Monday.
Dispute over crackers sparks clash
According to police, the incident began when a man identified as Khaja objected to the bursting of firecrackers near a mosque during the procession.
An argument reportedly broke out between Khaja and another individual, Lohith, before escalating into a physical confrontation.
Members from both groups allegedly joined the altercation, resulting in injuries to around eight people.
Three of the injured were shifted to Karnataka Institute of Medical Sciences (KIMS), Hubballi, for specialised treatment, while the remaining injured are undergoing treatment at Hangal Taluk Hospital.
Police deny communal angle
Haveri Superintendent of Police Yashoda Vantagodi said the clash should not be viewed through a communal lens.
According to the police, both groups have condemned the violence and appealed for peace in the village.
Additional police personnel have been deployed in Naregal as a precautionary measure to maintain law and order.
Officials said the village remains peaceful and under close monitoring.
No FIR registered yet
Police said no First Information Report (FIR) has been registered so far.
Authorities stated that legal action will be initiated after a formal complaint is received and an investigation begins.
Officials are collecting information from those involved and assessing the circumstances that led to the clash.
About Kar Hunnime festival
Kar Hunnime is a traditional festival celebrated in several districts of northern Karnataka, including Haveri, Gadag and Dharwad.
The festival is known for colourful processions featuring decorated cattle, community gatherings and the bursting of firecrackers as part of local customs.
Large crowds usually participate in the celebrations, prompting police to make security arrangements in sensitive areas.
Previous incidents during processions
Although police have ruled out any communal angle in the Naregal incident, Karnataka has witnessed tensions during religious processions in recent years.
In February this year, stone-pelting during a Shivaji Jayanti procession near a mosque in Bagalkote led to arrests and enhanced security deployment.
Similarly, in September last year, clashes were reported during a Ganesh immersion procession in Mandya district after incidents of stone-pelting. Several people were injured, additional police forces were deployed and peace meetings were organised to restore normalcy.
Conclusion
Police have urged residents to maintain peace while the investigation progresses. Authorities said the situation in Naregal remains under control and appropriate legal action will be taken after receiving a formal complaint.