As many as 40 people were arrested in Karnataka's Shivamogga after stones were pelted at a religious procession taken out by a community on Sunday evening. Following the incident that occured at Shantinagar-Ragigudda region, section 144 has been imposed within the Shivamogga Mahanagara Palika limits.
Police said a group of miscreants pelted stones at some vehicles and houses during the procession. "Some vehicles and houses were damaged due to this. Some police officers have also been hit. We have asked all of them to file a complaint. Security has been tightened in the area," Shivamogga superintendent of police (SP) GK Mithun Kumar was quoted by ANI.
Shivamogga Police resorted to a lathi charge and dispersed the crowd.
Following the incident, section 144 was imposed in the area as a precautionary measure. Over 40 has been arrested on Monday on the basis of video clips and information from witnesses.
Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah told reporters that the situation is now under control. "So far 40 people have been arrested. Our government will not tolerate such activities. The situation is under control now," he added.
The police added that two platoons of Rapid Action Force, 20 Karnataka State Reserve Police and 500 Home Guard personnel have been deployed in the area as a precaution. "Complaints are also taken from police personnel who have been pelted with stones," the SP added.
No other untoward incident was reported and the procession went on peacefully. "No one should listen to rumours, strict action will be taken against the culprits," the SP added.