Bagalkot, Feb 20 (NationPress) - On Friday, Karnataka police apprehended eight individuals linked to the stone-pelting incident that occurred during the Shivaji Jayanti procession in Bagalkot city.

The atmosphere in the city remains tense, with enhanced security measures implemented by the police.

Bagalkot Superintendent of Police Siddharth Goyal confirmed the arrests, stating, "A suo motu case has been filed regarding the stone-pelting, and an FIR is underway. The suspects were identified through CCTV footage of the event," he added.

The arrested have been named as Tanveer Havaldar (25), Saddam (22), Majju Kamatagi, Fayaz (24), Sarfaraz (33), Chavoos, Riyan Sheik, Wasim Sheik, and Ayaan Guledagudda (29).

Hindu activists claim the incident was premeditated, asserting that despite it being a Thursday, approximately 200 individuals congregated at the mosque. They have called on the police to apprehend all involved, warning of potential unrest with significant Hindu festivals like Holi approaching.

According to these activists, the procession lasted four hours, traversing various areas of the city. They reported that stones and slippers were thrown as the procession neared the mosque. They have given the police until Saturday evening to arrest all suspects, threatening to take further action if their demands are unmet.

It’s important to note that prohibitory orders were enacted in Bagalkot following the unrest during the Shivaji Jayanti procession.

The incident occurred in the Killa Oni area as the procession passed a mosque late Thursday night.

In response, police have imposed prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) in Old Bagalkot, Navanagar, and Vidyagiri areas. These restrictions will remain effective until midnight on December 24.

These orders prohibit gatherings of more than four people in public, the carrying of dangerous weapons, and conducting meetings or protests without prior authorization.

Police presence has been bolstered throughout the city, particularly near the Panka Mosque, its surrounding regions, and the Kottaleshwara temple, to avert any further incidents.

Authorities reported that miscreants allegedly threw slippers and stones at the procession, resulting in injuries to both Superintendent of Police Siddharth Goyal and a Hindu activist. The procession was nearing its conclusion when the incident transpired.

Bagalkot SP Goyal reassured that the situation is under control, saying, "We are reviewing video evidence and identifying the perpetrators for arrest." He noted that during initial investigations, it appeared only police personnel were targeted, with two stones hitting officers, including one that struck him.

He emphasized that the situation is now stable, with additional security measures in place, and those responsible for the unrest will be dealt with severely. He also mentioned that there is no indication this event was orchestrated.