Why Were Prohibitory Orders Imposed in Karnataka's Bagalkot?
Synopsis
Tensions rise in Bagalkot, Karnataka, after a stone-pelting incident during the Shivaji Jayanti procession led to the imposition of prohibitory orders. Authorities are on high alert as public safety is a top priority.
Key Takeaways
Prohibitory orders enforced in Bagalkot.
Stone-pelting incident during Shivaji Jayanti procession.
Additional security measures in place.
Public gatherings over four persons banned.
Investigation ongoing to identify culprits.
Bagalkot, Feb 20 (NationPress) - Prohibitory orders have been enforced in the city of Bagalkot in Karnataka following tensions arising from a stone-pelting incident during the Shivaji Jayanti procession.
The disturbance occurred in the Killa Oni area while the procession was passing by a mosque.
In response to this incident, authorities have enacted prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) in the Old Bagalkot, Navanagar, and Vidyagiri areas. These restrictions will be in effect until midnight on December 24.
Under these prohibitory measures, gatherings of more than four individuals in public spaces are prohibited. Additionally, carrying weapons, engaging in activities threatening public safety, holding meetings or events without prior approval, and organizing protests have all been banned.
The police have increased security throughout the city, deploying additional personnel near the Panka Mosque, surrounding areas, and the Kottaleshwara Temple to avert any further incidents.
In light of the unrest, Hindu activists have voiced their frustration over the lack of arrests related to the stone-pelting event. They expressed concerns about the implications of no arrests being made, especially since the Superintendent of Police was injured. Some activists conducted a late-night protest and warned of escalating actions, including besieging a police station and organizing large protests if no arrests were made.
Eyewitnesses reported that miscreants threw slippers and stones at the procession, leading to injuries for Superintendent of Police Siddharth Goyal and a Hindu activist. The procession was reportedly on the verge of concluding when the attack occurred.
Following the stone-pelting, some vendors' pushcarts, mostly belonging to the minority community, were set ablaze.
Addressing the incident, Bagalkot SP Siddharth Goyal stated that the situation is under control, noting, 'We are reviewing video footage to identify and apprehend those responsible.' He clarified that only police personnel were struck by the stones, not civilians.
He added that the situation is currently stable, with video analysis underway and those accountable for the incident being sought. Additional security is in place, and strict measures will be enforced against anyone attempting to disrupt peace. He also indicated that the incident did not appear to be premeditated.
Point of View
I emphasize the importance of maintaining peace while allowing citizens to express their cultural heritage. The swift response by authorities is crucial in preventing further unrest.
NationPress
3 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What triggered the prohibitory orders in Bagalkot?
The prohibitory orders were triggered by a stone-pelting incident during the Shivaji Jayanti procession.
How long will the prohibitory orders remain in effect?
The prohibitory orders will remain in effect until midnight on December 24.
What activities are banned under the prohibitory orders?
Gathering of more than four persons, carrying dangerous weapons, engaging in activities threatening public safety, and conducting meetings without permission are banned.
What actions are being taken by the police?
The police have increased security and are reviewing video footage to identify and arrest those responsible for the stone-pelting.
Were any injuries reported during the incident?
Yes, both the Superintendent of Police and a Hindu activist sustained injuries during the incident.
