Haveri Kara Hunnime violence: FIR against 26 after firecracker clash near mosque
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
The Adur Police in Haveri district, Karnataka, have registered an FIR against 26 persons following a group clash that erupted during Kara Hunnime (Full Moon Day) festival celebrations in Naregal village of Hangal taluk on Monday evening, 30 June. The violence, which left six people injured, broke out over the bursting of firecrackers near a mosque during an annual bull procession, police said on Tuesday.
How the Violence Unfolded
The annual bull-running event, organised as part of the Kara Hunnime festival, had been held in Naregal village in previous years without incident. During this year's celebrations, farmers burst firecrackers as they ran their bulls near a local mosque. A man identified as Bhashasab Gowndi allegedly objected to the bursting of firecrackers in the mosque's vicinity, and police are now investigating whether that objection triggered the subsequent clash.
What began as a quarrel quickly escalated into a group confrontation, resulting in injuries to six persons. Heavy security was deployed promptly to prevent the situation from worsening.
FIR Details and Accused Named
Based on a complaint filed by Harish, son of Ramappa, the Adur Police booked 26 accused, including individuals identified as Khwaja, Bhashasab, Mehboob Ali, and Mahboobsab. The case has been registered under multiple provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including Sections 189(2) and 191(2). Further investigation is underway, and efforts are ongoing to trace and apprehend the remaining accused.
What the Government Said
Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge responded to the incident, saying: 'The violence occurred during celebrations involving a group of youths near a mosque. The police are investigating the matter, and the injured are being treated at the hospital. The police will investigate what exactly transpired.'
Police authorities confirmed that the situation in Naregal village is currently under control and appealed to residents to maintain peace and refrain from spreading rumours.
Security Deployment and Current Situation
Following the violence, the Adur Police significantly stepped up security arrangements in the village. More than 20 police personnel have been deployed on the ground. Investigators are examining the exact sequence of events, the cause of the clash, and the specific roles of those involved in the assault.
Tension prevailed in the village in the immediate aftermath, but officials stated the situation is presently peaceful.
Political Reaction
The incident has drawn sharp political attention. Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) State President and MLA B.Y. Vijayendra visited Naregal village and met the injured persons at the district hospital on Tuesday. The BJP has strongly reacted to the development, signalling that the episode is likely to become a flashpoint in the state's political discourse. This comes amid a broader pattern of communal sensitivities around festival processions and places of worship across Karnataka.