A shocking incident of desecration occurred at the historic Venugopalaswamy Mandir in Devara Beesanahalli on October 28, when a man identified as Kabir, allegedly of Bangladeshi origin, entered the sanctum sanctorum wearing slippers, kicked the murti of the deity, and vandalised the Mandir premises. The incident has sparked outrage and tension in the locality.
According to eyewitnesses, the incident took place around 8:30 a.m. Kabir, reportedly the owner of a shoe-stitching shop in Devara Beesanahalli, was seen shouting religious slogans before storming into the Mandir. Moments before the attack, he allegedly struck a photo of Bhagwan Ganesha displayed in front of a nearby medical store with a stick, provoking objections from locals. When confronted, he fled toward the Mandir, shouting slogans in favour of his religion.
Upon reaching the Mandir, Kabir reportedly threw a stone at the Garuda Gamba and then, carrying a bottle filled with an oil-like substance, entered the sanctum sanctorum with his slippers on. He then desecrated the deity by dragging and kicking the murti, an act that left devotees and Mandir staff horrified.
Hearing the commotion, locals rushed to the scene and caught Kabir red-handed. He was tied to a tree and beaten before being handed over to the Marathahalli police. The accused was later shifted to a private hospital for treatment following the assault. Police seized the bottle, slippers, and stones used during the incident.
Initial investigations suggest that Kabir may have entered India illegally from Bangladesh. During questioning, he allegedly claimed to be a Bangladeshi citizen. Authorities are now verifying his identity and background. Senior officers of the Marathahalli police visited the site, recorded witness statements, and have begun a detailed investigation into whether the act was premeditated or influenced by extremist ideology.
The desecration of the Mandir has triggered widespread condemnation. Locals have demanded strict action and heightened security around religious institutions in the area. Many expressed anger that such an incident could occur in broad daylight within a densely populated neighbourhood.
Police officials have assured that the situation is under control and that additional personnel have been deployed to prevent any untoward incidents. “The accused is currently under treatment. Once discharged, we will interrogate him thoroughly to uncover the motive and his possible links,” said a senior police official.
Authorities are also coordinating with the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) to confirm Kabir’s nationality and legal status in India. The investigation is ongoing, and police have not ruled out filing charges under sections related to religious sentiment and unlawful entry.
The Venugopalaswamy Mandir, a revered landmark in the region, attracts hundreds of devotees daily. The shocking nature of the desecration has disturbed the local community, prompting calls for stronger surveillance and protection of religious sites.
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