Stone-Throwing Incident at Hindu Religious Procession in Bengaluru Sparks Outrage
Incident Overview
In Bengaluru's Jagjivan Ram Nagar, a Hindu religious event was disrupted when assailants reportedly hurled stones at participants, prompting devotees to demand police intervention. According to law enforcement, the incident occurred during a procession when stones were allegedly thrown at the chariot. A police spokesperson mentioned that they received a complaint stating that the procession was attacked, with the complainants alleging that the attackers belonged to another community. However, the police are currently investigating these claims.
Injuries and Community Response
The attack during the procession resulted in injuries to two women. Following the incident, local residents protested outside the Jagjivan Ram Nagar police station, calling for action against those responsible. In anticipation of potential retaliatory actions from the agitated crowd, additional police forces were deployed in the area on Monday.
Police Investigation
Senior police officials are present in the vicinity and have initiated an investigation to identify the individuals involved in the disturbance. Based on a complaint filed by Shashikumar N, a resident of VS Garden, a First Information Report (FIR) was registered late Sunday night. The complaint indicated that the incident took place between 8:15 PM and 9 PM while devotees were participating in the procession.
Details of the Ritual
The complainant noted that he has been participating in the worship of Om Shakti and Ayyappa Swami for the past 23 years, traditionally wearing a garland of Om Shakti and carrying an 'Irummudi' on his head during the procession. The 'Irummudi' consists of two bundles tied in cloth, one containing worship materials like coconuts, rice, and lamps, while the other holds personal items for the devotee. Carrying the 'Irummudi' is considered a significant aspect of the Ayyappa vow.
Allegations of Violence
The complaint alleged that three to four young men threw stones at the procession, resulting in a serious head injury to a female devotee, who subsequently required hospitalization. The complaint also mentioned that similar incidents had occurred in the area previously, with mischievous elements causing disturbances during religious ceremonies. It was claimed that the locality has a significant population of Dalits, and incidents of atrocities against them have been reported.
Government Response
Reacting to the incident, Karnataka's Home Minister G. Parameshwara stated that police have apprehended and arrested four to five boys aged between 15 and 17 in connection with the stone-throwing. He remarked, "During the Om Shakti worship, these boys threw stones. They have all been caught and arrested. Since they are minors, the case falls under the Juvenile Justice Act. A case has been registered, and further action will be taken according to the law." Parameshwara also mentioned that the police are conducting a thorough investigation to determine who incited the minors and how the incident unfolded.
Political Reactions
In response to criticism from the BJP, the Home Minister asserted that the government takes legal action before political reactions arise. He stated, "Whenever such incidents occur, BJP leaders are the first to respond. However, we take legal action before they make statements. The accused have already been arrested, and action will be taken according to the law." Parameshwara accused the BJP of attempting to create confusion for political reasons and claimed that the party has a habit of making false statements.