The coastal town of Bhatkal in Karnataka faced tension as protests erupted over the relocation of the Hindu religious site ‘Moorin Katte’. Prohibitory orders have been imposed for three days, and security measures have been heightened in sensitive areas. Police have taken action, including arrests, to address the situation.
Authorities have deployed nine platoons of the Karnataka State Reserve Police and three platoons of the District Armed Reserve to maintain law and order in the region. The Superintendent of Police assured that the original religious site remains intact and secure, with security arrangements in place. The controversy arose due to the site being marked for demolition as part of a national highway expansion project.
Four FIRs have been registered in connection with the incident, addressing various aspects such as alleged assaults on policemen and blocking of the national highway. Legal actions are being initiated, with six arrests made so far. Hindu organizations objected to the relocation, leading to protests and demonstrations.
The situation escalated as minority community members gathered at the site, demanding the structure’s removal, resulting in vandalism. Police intervened after heated arguments and assaults on officers, leading to a lathi charge. Despite police actions, the group persisted in their demand for the removal of the religious structure. Hindu activists also protested against a government official involved in the developments.
