Karnataka Minister Accuses Opposition of Inflaming Tensions After Madhur Communal Clash
MADDUR, Karnataka – The Karnataka government moved swiftly to contain communal unrest after a stone-pelting incident targeted a Ganesh Visarjan procession in Maddur on Tuesday, with a state minister accusing the BJP and JD(S) opposition of “provocation” for political gain.
The incident, which occurred during the final immersion ceremony of the Ganesh Chaturthi festival, reportedly involved individuals throwing stones from near a mosque. Local authorities launched an immediate investigation, resulting in the arrest of 21 suspects within hours.
Swift Police Action, No Hindu Complaints: Minister
Addressing the media, Karnataka Minister Cheluvara Swamy detailed the government’s response. He emphasized that the situation was brought under control rapidly and that no cases had been registered against any Hindu participants in the procession.
“Action has been taken against the culprits within a few hours of the incident. There is no other case where action was taken so quickly,” stated Minister Swamy. “No case has been registered against any Hindus. We are not favoring anyone; if we were, why would we have arrested twenty-one people?”
Investigation Points to “Outside Elements”
The minister suggested that the clash was an aberration for the town and that the investigation is exploring the possibility of involvement by outsiders. “An incident like this has never happened in Maddur before. We are investigating the possibility that someone from outside may have come to create trouble,” he said.
He assured that the government would act firmly against anyone found guilty, regardless of their community. “Whatever the community, we will take appropriate action against them,” he affirmed.
Opposition Parties Accused of Political Provocation
The minister’s strongest remarks were reserved for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Janata Dal (Secular). He alleged that their leaders, unable to challenge the ruling Congress government on development or in the legislative assembly, are resorting to inflaming communal passions.
“The leaders of the BJP and some JD(S) leaders are doing provocative work. Instead of giving provocation for communal riots, they could have advised us to take stricter measures,” Swamy said. “The BJP and JD(S) leaders are unable to face us politically and are thus engaged in giving provocation whenever such incidents happen.”
He concluded by accusing the opposition of being unable to stomach the government’s successful development programs. “The BJP and JD(S) leaders cannot digest the development programs of our government.”
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The situation in Maddur is now reported to be calm with a heightened police presence. Investigations into the precise origins of the clash are ongoing.
