Panchamasali protest Belagavi
A protest organized by the Panchamasali Reservation Agitation Committee at Suvarna Soudha turned violent on Tuesday, compelling police to use a minor lathi-charge to control the situation. The altercation led to injuries to 14 police personnel and 10 protesters, according to senior officials. For more details : https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/karnataka/police-say-they-used-force-as-panchamasali-protest-turned-violent-in-belagavi/article68970469.ece
Protest Escalates Despite Permissions
Inspector-General of Police Vikas Kumar Vikas revealed that protestors disobeyed a High Court order, engaging in stone-throwing and damaging barricades as they attempted to storm the Suvarna Soudha premises. Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Roshan clarified that while permission for the protest was initially denied, it was later revised following a directive from the High Court allowing peaceful demonstrations.
Disruption and Legal Action
Although authorities had designated specific protest areas and made security arrangements, activists caused significant disruptions to traffic and public life. Superintendent of Police Bheemashankar Guled confirmed that 70 individuals were booked for offences such as rioting and obstructing public order.
Leaders Respond to Police Action
The aftermath of the violence has sparked widespread criticism. Sri Basava Jaya Mrutyunjay Swami, a prominent leader of the agitation, condemned the police action and announced statewide protests for Thursday. Political figures like Iranna Kadadi and R.K. Patil joined the condemnation, calling the police’s response excessive and unwarranted.
Background of the Panchamasali Reservation Demand
The Panchamasali community has been protesting for inclusion in the 2A reservation category to secure better access to education and employment opportunities. The demand has been a contentious issue, with activists frequently staging protests to pressure the government into meeting their requirements.
Public Reaction and Future Developments
Residents expressed mixed reactions to the events, with some criticizing the inconvenience caused by the protests and others supporting the community’s demands. Authorities have tightened security across Belagavi in anticipation of further demonstrations.
Stay updated as the situation develops, with more protests planned in the coming days.
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