Communal tensions erupted in Belagavi after stone-pelting over religious slogans during a local Urs procession.
Belagavi
A communal clash erupted in Belagavi’s Khadak Galli following a dispute over ‘I Love Muhammad’ religious slogans during the annual Uru procession at Mabusubani Dargah, triggering police intervention and arrests. The incident occurred after some local Hindu residents questioned the chanting of “I Love Muhammad” by Muslim youths participating in the procession. In response, stones were thrown at the questioning residents, and swords were displayed, heightening tensions. Following complaints, the Belagavi Market Police registered an FIR against 50 individuals, including 10 named participants, and have taken 11 people into custody so far.
Typically held along the Jalgaar Galli route, this year’s procession reportedly entered Khadak Galli without prior permission, leading locals to question the sudden appearance and the slogans being shouted in their neighborhood. The confrontation escalated quickly, prompting police to disperse the procession and restore order. Deputy Commissioner of Police Narayan Bharmani, along with two other DCPs, visited the area to assess the situation and ensure that law and order were maintained.
In the aftermath, Hindu youths mounted a counter-protest, putting up banners stating “I Love Shriram” in response to the earlier slogans. Authorities are working to ease communal tensions while continuing their investigation under the jurisdiction of Khadebazar Police Station. The incident has highlighted concerns over unauthorized processions, the potential for communal flare-ups, and the challenges police face in maintaining peace during religious events in Belagavi.
