Kumaraswamy accuses Karnataka government of orchestrating violence during Ganesh procession

Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy on Friday strongly criticized the Karnataka government’s response to the recent violence in Nagamangala, which erupted during a Ganesh idol immersion procession. He alleged that the clashes seemed orchestrated and called into question the authorities’ handling of the situation.

The unrest in Nagamangala escalated swiftly when two groups clashed, leading to widespread chaos as mobs attacked shops and vehicles.

Kumaraswamy expressed frustration over the apparent inaction of law enforcement, asking pointedly, “Where were the police when the violence broke out? Where was the Circle Inspector? Where was the Deputy SP during this crisis?”

He further questioned the integrity of the police investigation, raising concerns about how details about those allegedly involved were uncovered so soon after the incident. “How did a police officer, while in the hospital, already have names of suspects by 1:30 a.m.? This seems like a fabricated narrative sponsored by the government,” he claimed.

Kumaraswamy also took aim at the state’s Home Minister, criticizing his attempt to downplay the seriousness of the clashes. “The Home Minister brushed it off as a minor incident. What kind of message does that send to the people?” he asked.

In response, Home Minister G. Parameshwara announced that an inquiry had been initiated and that the inspector involved in the incident was suspended. He acknowledged that the violence stemmed from a change in the pre-approved route for the procession. Dismissing BJP’s demands for a National Investigating Agency probe, Parameshwara assured the public that the government is treating the matter with utmost seriousness.