Nagamangala violence: Home Minister warns of merciless action

NT Correspondent Bengaluru: Warning merciless action against those taking law into their hands, Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara on Friday said the situation in violence-hit Nagamangala town is peaceful, and an inquiry is on. He said the government will consider giving compensation to those, whose livelihood has been affected as he hit out at the opposition parties for "politicising" the episode.

Clashes broke out between two groups during a Ganesha idol immersion procession at Nagamangala in Mandya district, following which mobs went on a rampage targeting shops and vehicles leading to tension on Wednesday night. "(A Police) Inspector has been suspended, as he had slightly altered the given route (of the procession). It is his responsibility.

We had told police staff and officials across the state that if any incidents take place in their respective jurisdiction they will be held responsible. As negligence was found on the part of the Inspector, he has been suspended," Parameshwara told reporters here. He said an inquiry is on against the Deputy Superintendent of Police and other officials; senior officials have been asked to submit a report on the "factuals" and, based on it, further action will be taken. "We have sought for a report after inquiry about the incident that took place.

Now the situation is under control. IG (Inspector General of Police) and other senior officials are camped there, and are monitoring the situation to ensure that nothing happens further. Now the situation is peaceful," the Minister added. Asked whether violence was pre-planned, Parameshwara said a probe has been ordered and once the report comes, things will be known.