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Tensions flared in Bangarappa Badavane, located in Shivamogga’s Ragigudda area, on the night of Saturday, July 5, following allegations that religious idols placed at a public site were desecrated by individuals associated working at a local construction site. The incident led to protests by residents and drew strong reactions from local BJP leaders, who accused the ruling Congress government of failing to maintain communal harmony. Two persons have been arrested in connection with the incident. The accused have been charged under sections pertaining to hurting religious sentiments and under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.
Residents alleged that idols of Lord Ganesha and a Naga stone, installed just days earlier on a newly constructed platform in a park, were tampered with. The park is situated near an under-construction house owned by an advocate. According to police, a man overseeing the construction at the site and his friend were taken into custody for their alleged involvement. Police clarified that the Naga idol was not broken but had been dislodged from its position, and the adhesive used to secure it had been tampered with.
The incident sparked anger among locals, many of whom claimed the act was intended to hurt religious sentiments. As word of the desecration spread, crowds gathered in protest, demanding strict action against those involved.
Protesters accused the individuals of objecting to the placement of the idols and deliberately damaging them. A bike rally was held in protest, and some demonstrators set tyres ablaze at Allama Prabhu Circle.
Senior police officials, including Shivamogga Superintendent of Police G.K. Mithun Kumar, Additional SP CG Kariyappa, and Deputy SP Sanjeev Kumar, visited the area to assess the situation and maintain law and order. Police presence was stepped up in the locality to prevent any escalation.
Elected representatives and party leaders also visited the site. Shivamogga MLA SN Channabasappa and BJP city unit leaders met residents and demanded immediate action against those responsible. Channabasappa alleged that the accused’s residence, located opposite the park, was built illegally on government land and should be demolished.
On Sunday, July 6, former minister KS Eshwarappa also visited the area, criticising the Congress-led state government for inadequate action in the face of communal tensions.
BJP state president and Shikaripura MLA BY Vijayendra accused the Congress government of enabling repeated communal incidents in Shivamogga through its “appeasement politics.” He said, “The Congress government’s policies have emboldened troublemakers and weakened law enforcement. Incidents like this are a direct result of such a soft stance.”
Vijayendra added, “Chief Minister Siddaramaiah cannot escape responsibility. His government is solely accountable for the deteriorating law and order situation. If the state doesn’t act, people will lose faith in its ability to govern.”
Police officials have urged the public not to believe or circulate unverified claims and confirmed that the situation is currently under control.