Around 50 people were arrested following violent clashes between two religious groups during a Ganesha idol procession in Nagamangala, Mandya district. The incident occurred near a dargah on Mysuru-Nagamangala road on Wednesday night, escalating into stone-pelting, shop fires, and vehicle damage.
Protests and Arrests
Tensions heightened on Thursday as women from both Hindu and Muslim communities protested in front of the Nagamangala police station, demanding the release of their family members who had been arrested in connection with the riots. The clashes erupted when the two groups argued over the route of the procession, leading to violence that saw approximately 25 shops set ablaze.
Police and Local Intervention
Police forces quickly intervened to control the mob, deploying additional personnel to restore peace in the area. Several vehicles were also damaged and torched during the unrest. In response to the violence, the authorities imposed Section 144 in the area, prohibiting gatherings, and declared a holiday for schools and colleges in the town until further notice. The restriction will remain in effect until noon on September 14.
Officials Visit the Scene
Senior officials, including Superintendent of Police Mallikarjuna Baladandi, IGP Boralingaiah, and DC Kumar, visited Nagamangala to assess the situation. District in-charge Minister N. Chaluvarayaswamy also visited the town on Thursday morning, calling the incident unfortunate but assured that the situation was now under control with additional police forces deployed.
Government’s Response
Speaking to reporters, Minister Chaluvarayaswamy said, “The clash which started around 9 pm on Wednesday flared up, with miscreants setting fire to shops and damaging vehicles. There is no need for anxiety; the situation is under control.”The town remains under strict police supervision to prevent further escalation.