Inter-community dispute involving minors triggers tension in Mudigere , cases filed on both sides

Mudigere (Chikkamagaluru) : A dispute involving a minor girl and a minor boy from different communities in Bilugula village has escalated into a tense situation, with police registering cases against both groups over allegations of coercion, blackmail and assault.

According to police, the case came to light following a complaint filed by the girl’s father, alleging that the minor boy and his father, identified as Iliyas, pressured the girl to convert to Islam and marry him.

“The boy allegedly insisted that the girl convert and marry him. When she refused, he is accused of uploading her photos on Instagram and blackmailing her,” a police officer said.

Based on the complaint, a case has been registered under relevant provisions, including Section 329(4) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), the Karnataka Protection of Right to Freedom of Religion Act 2022, the Information Technology Act, and the POCSO Act.

Meanwhile, in a counter-complaint filed by the minor boy, police have booked six individuals for allegedly assaulting him. The accused have been identified as Prashanth, Sudev, Praneeth, Chandru, Pushpa and Vinod.

In his complaint, the boy stated that on March 23 evening, he was called near a kebab shop where the accused allegedly surrounded him, slapped him and attempted to choke him. “We were previously in a relationship, but after our parents advised us, we decided to focus on studies. However, I was attacked over the same issue,” the boy claimed.

Police confirmed that both complaints are being investigated. “We have registered cases on both sides and are verifying the facts. Further action will be taken based on evidence,” an officer said.

The incident has raised concerns in the region due to its sensitive nature involving minors and inter-community allegations. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation to prevent any escalation and ensure law and order is maintained.