Mandya: The fact-finding committee formed to investigate the riots during the Ganapati Nimajjan procession in Nagamangala, Mandya district, submitted its report today to BJP state president BY Vijayendra at the state BJP office in Malleswaram. The committee, led by former Deputy Chief Minister Dr. C.N. Ashwath Narayan, included members Bairati Basavaraj, Bhaskara Rao, and Narayana Gowda. The report contained detailed findings from the investigation into the riot incident that occurred during the festival.
Upon receiving the report, Vijayendra reviewed the contents, which included photos and descriptions of the events. He expressed appreciation for the committee’s timely submission and thorough work. He then addressed the media, stating, “When Hindu youths were celebrating Ganesha in Nagamangala, traitors from a particular community wielded swords and attacked Hindu-owned shops, causing significant property damage. This happened in full view of the police. We visited Nagamangala and spoke directly with the people affected. The committee was formed under the leadership of Dr. Ashwath Narayan to uncover the truth, and now we have the report. The riot incident needs a thorough investigation,” he emphasized.
Vijayendra further claimed that the unrest in Nagamangala was the result of divisive politics and appeasement tactics. “There was always harmony in Nagamangala, but from time to time, riots broke out due to political interference. These incidents are fueled by appeasement politics, where the cases of the accused are often withdrawn for vote bank politics. This riot is a clear example of the police being rendered ineffective and unable to take action,” he said.
Former DCM Dr. Ashwath Narayan also weighed in, criticizing the police’s handling of the situation. “This was a premeditated act. About 25 to 30 individuals were marching on the main road when the riot began. There were similar incidents last year, yet no preventive measures were taken. The fact that the attackers wore masks and had petrol bombs ready shows this was planned. Specific shops were targeted and set on fire for the third time,” he pointed out.
He went on to allege that the petrol used in the bombs was sourced from a particular petrol station, and he expressed concern over Nagamangala becoming a haven for anti-social elements. “Nagamangala is now a hub for absconders, anti-social forces, and extremist groups like the PFI. Narcotics are being stored here, and even the Home Minister has acknowledged the involvement of people from Kerala and Bangladeshi nationals in these activities,” he added.
Dr. Ashwath Narayan further criticized the police’s failure to act. “There were no riots during Ganeshotsava anywhere when we were in power. Today, riots are breaking out in 8-10 parts of the state without any provocation. Elected representatives are openly making threats, yet no action is being taken against them. They are even threatening to create a situation akin to Bangladesh and storm the governor’s office, but no case has been registered against them,” he complained.
The committee’s report not only highlighted the failures of the local authorities but also called attention to a broader political issue, accusing the current government of encouraging a “politics of hate.” Dr. Ashwath Narayan concluded by condemning the state’s handling of law and order, alleging that innocent people were being charged, while those truly responsible for the riots were not being held accountable.
Key Points from the Report:
1. Recurring Appeasement: The Nagamangala incident is attributed to the ongoing appeasement of certain groups, which has contributed to repeated communal tensions.
2. Case Withdrawals: Legal cases against accused individuals have been systematically withdrawn, fostering a culture of impunity.
3. Police Inaction: Law enforcement’s hands are tied, limiting their ability to take necessary action even in the face of recurring unrest.
4. No Preventive Measures: Despite the backdrop of last year’s riot, no preventive steps were taken to address the underlying tensions.
5. Premeditated Attack: The use of petrol bombs, masks, and the targeted burning of specific shops indicate that the attack was planned and organized.
6. Haven for Extremist Activity: Nagamangala has become a base for absconders, extremist groups like the PFI, and other anti-social activities.
7. PFI Involvement: There are ongoing reports of local participation in PFI activities, further contributing to the instability in the region.
8. Police Injuries: Eight police officers were injured during the clash, highlighting the intensity of the violence.
9. Unjust Accusations: Innocent people have been falsely charged in connection with the riots, while the real culprits remain at large.
10. Political Influence: Sons of the local Congress block president are alleged to have been involved in the unrest, yet no action has been taken against them.
11. Call for NIA Investigation: The report calls for a National Investigation Agency (NIA) probe into the riots, citing links to extremist elements from Kerala.
12. Compensation Inaction: The government has failed to take concrete steps to provide compensation to those affected by the riots.
13. Appeasement of Anti-Hindu Elements: There is a pattern of appeasement of individuals and groups seen as hostile to Hindu society.
14. Confiscation of Arsonists’ Property: The report recommends that the properties of those involved in the arson be confiscated to ensure accountability.
The BJP intends to submit this report to both the state government and the Union Home Department, pressing for an NIA investigation by highlighting connections to Kerala-based extremist elements.
During the communal riot that occurred in Nagamangala during the Ganesha Varshak procession on September 11 , a significant amount of property was destroyed. Miscreants set fire to 26 shops throughout the town, using petrol bombs to incite chaos. The resulting damage amounted to ₹2.66 crore. Of this, buildings worth Rs 1.47 crore and goods valued at ₹1.18 crore were completely destroyed in the fire. Despite these devastating losses, the government has so far only made promises of compensation for the victims, with no concrete action taken to date.
