Bantwal: Police deploy additional forces as social media messages fuel tensions

Team Udayavani, Sep 16, 2024, 8:50 AM IST

An FIR has been registered at the Bantwal Town Police Station concerning statements, counter-statements, and challenge messages related to the upcoming Milad rally. Authorities have noted that voice messages and chats on social media regarding the rally and counter-rallies have been circulating. As a precaution, additional police forces are being deployed in sensitive areas. Senior police officials have arrived in BC Road to assess the situation.

Former Bantwal Municipality President Mohammed Sharif and council member Haseinar have had cases filed against them at the Bantwal Police Station for allegedly making provocative statements.

Challenge Message Goes Viral
A voice message from former Bantwal Municipality President Mohammed Sharif, reportedly challenging what might happen if the Milad rally is attacked, has gone viral on social media. In the message, he allegedly dared people to confront the rally, which is scheduled to be held in Kaikamba, BC Road, on September 16. This message has sparked reactions from Hindu leaders and organizations, who claim that the challenge is an attempt to incite communal tension.

Communal Provocation: MLA Calls for Legal Action
MLA Rajesh Naik Ulippady has urged Dakshina Kannada District Superintendent of Police Yathish N. to take immediate legal action against former Bantwal Municipality President Mohammed Sharif for allegedly inciting communal violence through a voice message. Naik pointed out that Sharif is a known rowdy sheeter and accused him of disturbing the peace in BC Road.

Call to Cancel Milad Rally: Dr. Bharath Shetty
MLA Dr. Y. Bharath Shetty has called on the police to cancel the Milad rally, citing concerns that a planned conspiracy by fanatics could disrupt the peace during the event. He emphasized that some individuals are creating situations that could lead to unrest and urged the district police to issue an immediate order to cancel the rally to maintain law and order.