Tensions boiled over in Chikkamagaluru when two students faced brutal assault inside a college bus over a seating dispute involving a girl from another community. Police reports confirm the Friday morning frenzy at Sahyadri College stemmed from religious objections, prompting high-level government intervention.
The flashpoint: Yogesh, a Hindu student, sat beside his Muslim friend on the bus. This drew ire from Salim and Rashid, who allegedly assaulted him, seizing his phone in the process. Jayant, stepping in to mediate, suffered the same fate in the ensuing brawl.
College officials, witnessing the chaos, immediately notified Busavanhalli police station. Officers arrived promptly, separating the warring factions and transporting them for statements. The probe is underway, with charges likely against the perpetrators.
This episode reveals deepening divides on campuses, where everyday interactions can turn volatile due to perceived religious boundaries. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah minced no words, holding district police chiefs accountable for curbing such organized disruptions.
‘We have a zero-tolerance policy against self-appointed moral guardians,’ Siddaramaiah affirmed, emphasizing strict enforcement. The statement serves as a broader mandate to eradicate vigilante justice statewide.
Community leaders and educators are now brainstorming measures like sensitivity workshops. As Chikkamagaluru reels from the shock, the incident amplifies calls for stronger interfaith dialogues in schools. Police assure full impartiality in their inquiry, aiming to restore peace swiftly.