Stone-pelting in Bagalkot: Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah urges for peace amid communal tensions

BENGALURU: Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah on Friday urged citizens to maintain peace and communal harmony following stone-pelting and unrest in Bagalkot during the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti procession.

“The incident of stone pelting in Bagalkot is unfortunate. I appeal to all citizens to maintain peace and unity. The police have taken swift action and made arrests. A thorough investigation is underway to identify all responsible parties, and strict action will be taken irrespective of who is involved. I urge everyone not to fall prey to rumours or provocation,” the CM said.


The disturbance occurred in Bagalkot’s old town when stones were reportedly thrown near Panka Masjid as the rally passed through the area. Hindu activist Prakash Arakeri and a police constable were injured in the incident. Eight people have been arrested in connection with the violence.

SP Siddharth Goyal confirmed that two stones were thrown at the procession and said authorities were reviewing video footage to identify the culprits. “Security personnel have been deployed across the city, and the situation is under control,” he added.

Tanzim, alleged to have thrown the stones, and seven others who obstructed police duties were among those arrested. During the unrest, miscreants set fire to three pushcarts at a nearby market, destroying vegetables, cash, and other goods. Police quickly doused the flames. A local woman, Jannatabi, was seen mourning the loss of her cash and belongings.

Hindu activists condemned the incident and demanded that the Northern IGP visit the city. They warned of a potential Bagalkot bandh if those responsible were not apprehended. In response, Assistant Commissioner Santosh Jagalasara issued a city-wide prohibition order, effective until midnight on 24 February.