Chikkamagaluru (Karnataka), Feb 17 (NationPress) - Tensions erupted in the Vijayanagar area of Chikkamagaluru city on Tuesday due to claims that a house belonging to a specific community had been subjected to relentless stone pelting for the past week by youths from a different community. In response, police filed two separate FIRs on Tuesday.

The situation has also taken a political angle, with the BJP cautioning that they will not remain passive if the stone pelters are not apprehended.

On the other hand, the Socialist Democratic Party of India (SDPI) contended that a minor incident has been exaggerated and called for action against BJP and Bajrang Dal members for allegedly assaulting youths from another community.

According to a complaint filed by the homeowner, Sudha, a case has been registered against the alleged stone pelters, Hussain and Riyaan, under sections 310(2), 62, and 352 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), as well as provisions of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, including sections 3(1)(r)(s) and 3(2).

A counter case has been filed against two individuals, Shyam and Santosh, under sections 115(2), 118(1), 351(2), and 352, in conjunction with section 3(5) of the BNS, on charges of assault. Shyam is reportedly linked to the Bajrang Dal, while Santosh serves as the district president of the BJP Yuva Morcha in Chikkamagaluru.

District president of BJP Yuva Morcha, Santosh, alleged that a group, including a minor, was intentionally targeting specific homes. He stated, “When confronted, they acted inappropriately towards the woman of the house. Immediate arrests must be made; otherwise, we will escalate our protests.” He further noted that the stone pelting seemed orchestrated.

“We are unclear on the motive behind their actions. When the woman of the house questioned them, the assailants allegedly attempted to attack her. One suspect was apprehended, while the others fled,” Santosh remarked.

“Associates of the accused later gathered and tried to rescue him, but local residents intervened and handed him over to the police,” he added.

In response to the accusations, SDPI leader Muneer stated that some youths were attacked over a trivial matter and demanded strict action against those accountable. “If they did indeed throw stones, they should be held accountable. Women deserve respect, regardless of their religion. However, those who assaulted the youths must also be prosecuted; if not, we will initiate strong protests,” he stated.

Two youths from the minority community were caught and beaten by local residents and Hindu activists before being handed to the police, while four others reportedly escaped on Monday night. Security has been heightened following intense confrontations outside the Basavanahalli Police Station between Bajrang Dal activists and SDPI members.

Residents revealed that unidentified individuals had been throwing stones at a house near Tilak Park in the Vijayanagar area during both day and night for the past week, instilling fear in the family. On Monday night, locals caught one of the suspects while the others managed to flee. The atmosphere became tense as members from both Hindu organizations and the SDPI congregated near the police station.

Sudha, the complainant, expressed that stones were repeatedly hurled at her residence, causing her family to live in dread. She noted that during the day, only her mother and sister were present at home while she was at work. On Monday night, when her mother and sister confronted the youths, an argument reportedly ensued. Gagan, the homeowner, claimed that the youths behaved inappropriately and attempted to assault the women when they were challenged.

Members of the Bajrang Dal asserted they apprehended some of the suspects and handed them over to the police. However, SDPI leaders alleged that Muslim youths were assaulted without justification. Two injured Muslim youths were admitted to the Malle Gowda Government District Hospital for treatment, with community leaders claiming they were attacked by Bajrang Dal and BJP workers.

Authorities stated that investigations are ongoing, and additional forces have been deployed in the area to uphold law and order. Police have also obtained CCTV footage related to the stone pelting incident.