Karnataka Minister Vows Action Against Rioters ‘Regardless of Religion’ Following Mandya Violence

Karnataka Minister N Cheluvarayaswamy has vowed to take action against those responsible for inciting a rift during the recent riots in Nagamangala, Mandya district, regardless of their religion, caste, or community. The violence erupted on Wednesday following allegations of stone pelting at a Ganesh immersion procession.

“We do not prioritize any community or caste—whether Hindu or Muslim. Action will be taken against those who caused this division,” Cheluvarayaswamy said on Thursday after visiting the site of the violence.

The minister assured that the situation has since calmed, and that the Revenue Department and police will conduct a survey to assess the damages, with a report expected by the evening. He pledged to present the findings to the Chief Minister to ensure compensation for those affected. Shops and motorcycles were damaged in the clashes, and many shopkeepers have lodged complaints.

Mandya District Collector Kumar reported that 54 arrests have been made so far, and prohibitory orders have been imposed, with schools and colleges closed for the day. Superintendent of Police (SP) Mallikarjun Baladandi explained that the altercation began when the Ganesh procession stopped to dance in front of a dargah, leading to a verbal confrontation. Though the police intervened and allowed the procession to continue, tensions escalated, culminating in stone-pelting and property damage, including seven bikes and six small shops set on fire.