Raichur: Tension prevailed at Bichali Camp in Raichur taluk after a long-standing land dispute reserved for a temple escalated into a clash between two groups on August 12. Two people were injured in the incident, prompting the authorities to impose prohibitory orders in the area as a precautionary measure.
The dispute centres on a piece of land in Survey No. 322 at Bichali Camp, which was developed as a rehabilitation area for people affected by the 2009 floods. A private company had constructed 132 houses for the flood victims, of which 131 were allotted to beneficiaries.
However, residents reportedly did not move into the houses as they were considered too small. Land near the houses was subsequently earmarked for public purposes, including a garden and a temple, according to residents.
A section of villagers has now alleged that the land reserved for the temple was used to construct a church in 2024 despite residents’ objections. They have questioned how the land earmarked for a temple could be used for another purpose and have demanded that the authorities verify the land records and take action if any rules were violated.
The other group has rejected the allegations and maintained that the church was constructed legally and that there was no violation of rules. The conflicting claims over the ownership, allotment and permitted use of the land have kept the issue simmering for several months.
Attempts to remove Anjaneya Murti
The church side group opposed another group for installing an Anjaneya murti in front of the church, but on the other side of the road. Preparations were reportedly being made to conduct prayers and distribute food on the occasion of Amavasya.
According to the allegations, some members of the other group attempted to remove the newly installed idol. This led to an argument between the two groups, which soon escalated into a physical confrontation and stone-pelting.
Two people sustained injuries in the incident and were shifted to the hospital for treatment.
The clash has caused concern among senior residents, particularly because the village had not witnessed such an incident earlier. Local elders and officials had reportedly attempted to resolve the dispute through discussions and a peace meeting. However, the fresh confrontation has once again brought the issue to the forefront.
Residents allege inaction despite complaints
Residents opposing the church construction have alleged that they had repeatedly approached the taluk and district administrations seeking action. They claimed that complaints had been submitted questioning the construction of the church on land allegedly reserved for a temple.
The residents have demanded that officials examine the original land allotment documents, records relating to the rehabilitation project and permissions obtained for construction before arriving at a decision.
They have also alleged that the lack of timely action contributed to the escalation of the dispute. The issue, they said, could have been resolved through an examination of official records before tensions reached the present stage.
However, the group supporting the church has maintained that the construction was carried out legally and that the allegations of encroachment or illegal occupation are unfounded.
Prohibitory orders imposed
Following the clash, authorities imposed prohibitory orders in Bichali and Bichali Camp to prevent any further escalation. Police personnel have been deployed in the area and are monitoring the situation.
A case has been registered at the Yeragera police station in connection with the incident. Police are investigating the circumstances that led to the confrontation and are also examining the role of those involved in the alleged stone-pelting and assault.
