Tension in Mandya After Ganesh Immersion Clashes; BJP, JD(S) Call for Bandh, Police on High Alert

Mandya (The Uttam Hindu): Tension continues to prevail in Karnataka’s Mandya district after violent clashes broke out between two communities during a Ganesh immersion procession in Maddur taluk on September 7. The stone-pelting incident left six people injured, prompting the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to call for a district-wide bandh on Tuesday from 6 AM to 5 PM.

BJP district president Indresh instructed party workers to ensure the bandh was observed in Maddur and appealed to the public, traders, and organizations to extend full support. He also described the bandh as a “warning to the government.” The Janata Dal (Secular), an ally of the BJP, also extended its support. Former MLA DC Thammanna urged people to participate in the bandh in an impartial manner.

As the bandh began early Tuesday morning, Maddur town came to a standstill. Major roads wore a deserted look, with all business establishments except those selling essential commodities remaining closed. Heavy police deployment was witnessed at mosques and key intersections, with forces kept on high alert to prevent any further escalation.

So far, police have detained 21 people in connection with the Maddur clashes. Union Minister of Heavy Industries and Steel, HD Kumaraswamy, blamed the ruling Congress government for the unrest, alleging that the state’s law and order situation had deteriorated. “The main reason behind such a large incident in our district and across the state is the conduct of the Congress-led government. Hindus are hurt, and incidents like these are happening every day,” he said.

Meanwhile, Mysuru also remains tense ahead of the proposed ‘Chamundi Chalo’ march by Hindu Jagaran and other organizations. Police have blocked all roads leading to Chamundi Hills, and over 300 personnel have been deployed at Sangolli Rayanna Circle. DCP Bindu Mani personally inspected the site, and officials confirmed that protestors attempting to march would be detained immediately, with additional police vehicles stationed on standby.