Protests Erupt in Madikeri After Grave Like Structure Found Inside Temple Premises

Tension gripped a village near Madikeri after a grave like structure was discovered inside the premises of the Gaddige Betta Sri Siddeshwara Temple. The incident sparked widespread outrage among local residents, with hundreds gathering outside the temple to demand swift action against those responsible.

According to the temple management, staff members arrived at the shrine on Sunday morning and found a structure decorated with flowers that resembled a grave. The discovery was immediately reported to the police. Temple authorities alleged that unidentified individuals had deliberately created the structure to hurt the religious sentiments of devotees and disturb communal harmony in the area.

The management also informed investigators that CCTV footage allegedly showed two vehicles arriving at the temple premises before the structure was created. Police have collected the footage as part of their investigation and are examining all available evidence to identify those involved.

As news of the incident spread, villagers, along with members of BJP and several Hindu organizations, staged a large protest outside the temple on Monday. Demonstrators blocked the road for several hours, accusing the authorities of delaying arrests and demanding immediate action. The protest led to a tense atmosphere in the locality and affected traffic movement.

During the protest, some demonstrators dug into the structure and claimed it was empty. Protesters also alleged that unidentified miscreants had consumed non vegetarian food within the temple premises, further intensifying public anger. These allegations are part of the ongoing investigation and have not been independently confirmed by authorities.

Several leaders from Hindu organizations addressed the gathering, warning that the agitation would be intensified if prompt action was not taken. Protesters repeatedly questioned the pace of the investigation and urged the police to identify and arrest the culprits without delay.

Officials from the Forest Department also visited the site because the area falls under its jurisdiction. Forest Range Officer Naveen Kumar and senior police officials assured the gathering that a formal case had been registered and that efforts were underway to trace those responsible. They appealed to the public to remain calm while the investigation continued.

To prevent any untoward incidents, authorities deployed more than 100 police personnel in and around the temple. The heavy security presence helped maintain order as discussions continued between officials and protest leaders.

The incident has drawn significant public attention across the district, with residents calling for a thorough investigation and strict legal action if any wrongdoing is established. Police have stated that the inquiry is progressing and that further action will be taken based on the evidence collected.