Tensions Rise in Karnataka Over Ganesha Procession Police Directives

Tensions erupted in T. Narsipur, Mysuru district, on Sunday following a dispute over police directives regarding Ganesha festival processions. BJP leaders, including Leader of the Opposition R. Ashok, staged protests against a local police inspector who allegedly threatened organizers against bursting crackers or raising slogans near a mosque. Mr. Ashok accused the Congress government of imposing restrictions on Hindu celebrations across Karnataka and compared the administration to a Taliban government. In response, Dalit organizations staged a counter protest against former MP Pratap Simha, accusing him of spreading communal poison with inflammatory statements. Police briefly arrested Mr. Ashok and other BJP leaders before releasing them.

Mysuru Superintendent of Police Mallikarjun Baladandi clarified that no restrictions have been placed on traditional procession routes and that the inspector had simply requested that organizers inform the police of immersion dates to ensure security. He noted that a previous year's procession had occurred without police notification, leading to security gaps. Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar rejected the BJP's claims, alleging that the opposition is using anti social elements to create unrest and incite communal emotions. Home Minister Priyank Kharge added that the police were merely directing processions to stick to route maps as a precautionary measure to maintain law and order.

Outlets with a center left lean focused on the communal tension and the specific role of Dalit counter protests in the unrest. In contrast, the center right outlet framed the event as a political row over religious freedom and government curbs on the Ganesha Utsav.