MANDYA, September 13, 2024: Union Minister and former Chief Minister of Karnataka, HD Kumaraswamy, visited Nagamangala in Mandya district on Friday in the wake of recent violence that erupted during a Ganapati procession on September 11.
Kumaraswamy’s visit came after stone pelting at the procession led to significant unrest in the area. Addressing the media, Kumaraswamy assured that the situation was now under control but expressed his surprise and disappointment over the disturbances.
“Now the situation is under control. But I had not expected that this kind of disturbance would happen… It is really a painful incident,” Kumaraswamy said. He emphasized his commitment to fostering communal harmony, stating, “Communities should live as brothers and sisters—that is my vision.”
The Minister praised the efforts of the Superintendent of Police and the District Administration for their quick response in controlling the situation. “SP and District Administration have done good work, I don’t want to unnecessarily blame anyone. Because of their intervention and immediate action, things were controlled,” he noted.
Earlier, Kumaraswamy had criticized the Karnataka Congress government for its handling of the situation. He accused the government of inefficiency and of favoring certain sections of society, which he claimed led to the communal clash. “Kannadigs do not support such communal clashes. They are very peaceful. Because of the government’s inefficiency in giving some protection to one section of society, such things are happening again and again,” he said. Kumaraswamy stressed the need for the government to ensure protection and support for all communities.
According to the Mandya District Collector, 54 individuals have been arrested in connection with the violence. The police reported that the incident resulted in the burning of seven bikes and six small shops, with 15 bikes and a car sustaining minor damage.
The district administration has taken precautionary measures, including the closure of schools and colleges for the day to prevent further unrest.
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