Bhatkal town witnessed swift communal tensions on Sunday night, forcing the taluk Police to resort to mild lathicharge to prevent escalation and ensure peace.
Amidst the tragic death of 10 persons due to drowning at Shirali near Bhatkal, the night witnessed a minor communal clash at the coastal town. The incident occurred when a group tried to construct a structure that had been demolished earlier. Local Muslims objected, leading to an argument between the two groups.
According to locals, a place of worship stood there for several years and was demolished by authorities for development works. However, a few Muslim groups objected, saying this should not come up here and tried to demolish the makeshift structure, to which Hindu groups stood guard.
There was a heated exchange of words, which even led to fisticuffs. Bhatkal Police intervened and tried to pacify warring factions. However, the war of words intensified, and even a Police officer who tried to broker peace was pushed around. This angered the police, who resorted to mild lathi charge and brought the situation under control.
The matter quickly became a political issue as Hindu outfits and BJP leaders said some locals are indulging in aggravating the situation and creating communal tensions.
Hindu outfits argued that “Devara Katte” was removed with consent by the National Highway Authorities of India on condition that they would construct it alongside the road once road widening is earmarked. “They promised to reconstruct it and assured us they would provide us with the land. Accordingly, the tiny temple has been built. The Muslim groups are opposing it. They are nowhere concerned with it, because this is alongside NH 66,” they said.
The place of dispute is now guarded by the police. The situation is under control, but tension still prevails.
This incident highlights the need for communal harmony and respecting religious sites during development.
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