Union Minister Claims ‘Deliberate Attack’ on Lord Ganesha Procession Amid Rising Communal Tensions

New Delhi , 13 September , 2024 – A Union Minister has alleged that a recent attack on a Lord Ganesha procession was part of a “deliberate and well-planned” effort to inflame communal tensions in the region. The incident occurred during the annual Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations, where participants in the religious procession were reportedly assaulted by a group of individuals, leading to clashes and injuries.

The Minister, speaking at a press briefing, condemned the violence and claimed that such attacks are orchestrated with the intent to disturb the communal harmony in the area. “This was not a random act of violence. It was a deliberate attempt to target a religious procession that holds deep cultural significance for millions,” the Minister stated.

Local authorities have since imposed curfews and heightened security in sensitive areas to prevent further escalation. Police have launched an investigation, with early reports suggesting that the incident could have been fueled by ongoing communal tensions between different communities in the region.

Political leaders from various parties have also weighed in on the matter, with some calling for restraint and dialogue to address underlying issues, while others demanded swift action against the perpetrators. Religious leaders have urged followers to remain peaceful and not allow such provocations to disturb social harmony.

The Union Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to maintaining law and order, promising that the culprits would be brought to justice swiftly. He also called on citizens to remain calm and united in the face of attempts to divide society along communal lines.

With tensions running high, authorities are urging citizens to avoid spreading misinformation or inflammatory content on social media, which could further escalate the situation. The state government has also assured the public that it is working closely with law enforcement agencies to ensure peace and stability in the region.

Union Minister Pralhad Joshi has alleged that the assault on a Lord Ganesha procession was a ‘well-planned attack.’ He also accused the Congress government of shielding those responsible for what he termed ‘heinous acts.’

Riots erupted in Nagamangala, Mandya district, Karnataka, on Wednesday following claims of stone-pelting during a Ganpati immersion procession. ‘It is a very unfortunate decision and the role of the government is very unfortunate… It was a well-planned attack on the procession of Lord Ganesha… Despite this, the Congress government claims it is not communal violence… They are protecting those involved in such heinous acts,’ Joshi stated on Thursday.

Joshi further asserted that the incident was a deliberate attack on a Hindu festival. ‘It was a well-planned attack on Hindus intended to create communal divide, and the perpetrators should be punished and put behind bars… this is a clear-cut attack on Hindu festivals and processions,’ he added.

On September 13, Union Minister of State Shobha Karandlaje demanded an investigation by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) into the incident. ‘Siddaramaiah is against Hindus and is only appeasing minorities. I demand the arrest of the culprits. Only Hindus have been arrested in this incident. An inquiry should be launched, and the NIA should investigate to uncover the truth,’ Karandlaje said.

Karandlaje also criticized Siddaramaiah, stating, ‘Whenever there is a Siddaramaiah government in Karnataka, actions are taken against Hindus. What happened in Mandya is an insult to Lord Ganesha and Hindus. The government refers to it as a minor incident. If the burning of 25 Hindu shops seems minor, what would a major incident be?’ In response to the riots, Mandya District Collector Kumar reported that fifty-four people were taken into custody and adequate security has been deployed as a precautionary measure.