A Palestine flag was briefly displayed during an Eid Milad procession in Ankola town, Karwar district, Karnataka on Wednesday, 26 August, prompting police to step in and take the flag into custody. The incident was contained quickly, and the procession was allowed to continue without further disruption.

What Happened in Ankola

A youth participating in the procession reportedly produced the Palestine flag and began waving it publicly. Police, who were present on the route, immediately approached the individual and questioned him. The youth reportedly argued with officers before the flag was seized. Elders present in the procession intervened, urging the youth to cooperate with the police and continue peacefully. The procession resumed shortly after.

Police have not registered a case so far. Officials stated they would examine the youth's background and assess whether there was any attempt or conspiracy to create communal tension. 'If any such involvement is established, appropriate legal action will be taken,' officials said. Security arrangements across Karwar district have been stepped up in view of the Eid Milad celebrations.

Separate Incidents in Chikkamagaluru

In a separate development, a banner reading 'I Love Mohammad' was erected in Tippunagar, Chikkamagaluru, during Eid Milad celebrations. The banner was placed near a large cut-out of Tipu Sultan, drawing objections from some local residents. Similar banners were seen along streets through which the Eid procession passed. Chikkamagaluru police subsequently removed the banners and maintained heightened vigil in the area.

The 'I Love Mohammad' campaign had previously triggered controversy at the national level, with cases registered in connection with the display of such banners in certain locations. Notably, this latest episode in Chikkamagaluru comes against the backdrop of an earlier controversy involving the same Tipu Sultan cut-out and the alleged playing of a Pakistan-related song — a video of which circulated on social media and led to the arrest of two people.

Broader Picture Across Karnataka

Barring these two incidents, Eid Milad processions across Karnataka remained largely peaceful, with no other untoward incidents reported from elsewhere in the state.

Government Response

Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar conveyed greetings on the occasion, stating: 'Warm greetings on the occasion of Milad-un-Nabi. May this occasion bring peace, happiness, harmony and prosperity.'

Deputy Chief Minister G. Parameshwara also extended wishes, saying: 'Heartfelt Eid Milad-un-Nabi greetings to all Muslim brothers and sisters of the state. I extend my best wishes that the sacred Eid Milad, a symbol of harmony, brings happiness, peace, prosperity, and contentment to everyone.'

With investigations ongoing into the Ankola flag incident and security heightened across sensitive districts, authorities will be watching closely for any escalation in the days ahead.