Dakshina Kannada: A group led by Sharanabasappa Kabja, which arrived in Dharmasthala on Monday to protest against what they claimed was a “fake deity,” was forced to retreat after facing intense opposition from local residents.
The group of around 10 individuals walked up to the main gate of the temple town holding placards, reportedly under the guise of a “courtesy visit.” However, locals quickly recognized them as the same individuals who had made controversial statements about Dharmasthala’s deities on social media.
The situation escalated into a heated verbal exchange and minor scuffle, prompting police to step in and escort the group to the Dharmasthala police station. Following discussions with authorities, the group left the area without offering darshan at the temple.
Furious locals accused the group of trying to malign the sacred image of Dharmasthala and demanded strict legal action, calling the march a deliberate provocation.