Prohibitory orders extended in Bagalkot till Feb 28 amid tension after Shivaji Jayanti clashes

Bagalkot: Tension continues to prevail in Bagalkot following stone pelting incidents during the Shivaji Jayanti procession, with authorities extending prohibitory orders in the city till February 28.

Police have made multiple arrests from both communities even as attempts to restore normalcy through peace meetings have reportedly failed.

The violence, which broke out during the Shivaji Jayanti procession earlier this week, saw miscreants from two communities allegedly engaging in stone pelting. While the immediate flare-up has been contained, the atmosphere remains sensitive, with sporadic tension simmering in certain pockets of the city.

Superintendent of Police Siddharth Goyal issued a stern warning that no protests will be permitted during the period of prohibitory orders. “Section 144 will remain in force in Bagalkot city till February 28.

Any attempt to organise protests will invite strict legal action,” he told reporters after a high-level meeting. District in-charge Minister R. B. Thimmapur, along with district officials and police authorities, held a joint meeting with leaders from both Hindu and Muslim communities, urging them to maintain peace and communal harmony.

District Commissioner Sangappa appealed to citizens to cooperate with the administration, especially in view of the upcoming PUC examinations and Holi festival on February 28.

“Students are preparing for their exams. We request everyone to ensure a peaceful environment so that children can focus on their studies and perform well,” SP Goyal said, adding that protests and road blockades would inconvenience roadside vendors and the general public.

Meanwhile, Hindu organisations have called for a massive protest on February 26, demanding action against mosque authorities and others allegedly involved in the incident. A meeting of Hindu leaders was held on Sunday evening to chalk out the protest strategy.

Security has been tightened near sensitive areas, including the Pankha Mosque and Kottaleshwara Temple, where police deployment has been intensified. Two rounds of peace meetings have so far failed to yield a breakthrough.

Police sources confirmed that eight persons from the Muslim community have been arrested in connection with the stone pelting. Additionally, two Hindu activists have been taken into custody for allegedly attacking meat shops during the unrest.

Former minister B. Sriramulu visited the hospital and enquired about the condition of those injured in the clashes.

Authorities said the situation is under control but urged residents to refrain from spreading rumours and maintain communal harmony.

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