Karnataka: Argument between youths sparks communal clash in Bagalkot

Eve-teasing accusation

“We have learnt that three youths led by Racheya Kumbar initiated an argument with a 20-year-old man, Yasin, accusing him of eve-teasing at the Kerur bus stand. The heated argument soon turned into a scuffle,” said the Bagalkot police.

According to the cops, Yasin informed his friends about the incident.

They rushed to the bus stand at attacked Kumbar and two others.

One of the youths was severely injured in the attack. The injured was identified as Arun Kattimani, district secretary of the Hindu Jagarana Vedike.

Bagalkot communal clash

The police explained that supporters of Kattimani, after learning about his injuries, allegedly created a ruckus in a Muslim-dominated colony.

They allegedly damaged houses, burned handicrafts, and vandalised shops.

“Members of the Hindutava group damaged several bikes and set a vegetable handcart on fire,” said Bagalkot Superintendent of Police (SP) S Jayaprakash.

The SP added, “We have registered cases against the miscreants and a total of 18 people have been arrested.”

One Sadiq, a resident of Kerur, said, “A few people shouted inflammatory religious slogans and targeted properties owned by Muslims.”

Hindu Jagarana Vedike spokesperson Prakash Raju said about the Bagalkot communal clash, “The incident should not have happened. One of our party workers was attacked and this is unacceptable.”

He added, “This is not an isolated incident. It is happening across Karnataka. We urge the police to nab all the culprits and take appropriate action against them.”