Karnataka Ganesha procession clash: Bandh grips Maddur today; over 1k cops deployed

MANDYA: Thirteen people were wounded and 22 taken into custody after communal clashes broke out during a Ganesh idol immersion procession in Maddur town of Karnataka's Mandya district Sunday night, sparking a heavy security clampdown and political sparring.Authorities deployed over 1,000 police personnel Monday to prevent flare-ups after stones were allegedly hurled at a procession around 9pm the previous night. Police dispersed the crowd quickly, and idols were later immersed in a lake outside the town without further violence.Shops downed shutters voluntarily on Monday, while right-wing groups have called for a bandh Tuesday. Another round of idol immersions is slated for Wednesday, prompting police to step up cover.Mandya SP Mallikarjun Baladandi said key accused were arrested based on CCTV and cell phone footage. They face non-bailable charges.Police used lathis Monday to disperse activists who attempted to march in protest despite denial of permission. "Is this a state in India or has it become a mini-Pakistan? Govt is responsible for the law-and-order breakdown," alleged BJP neta R Ashoka.BJP MP Pratap Simha demanded suspension of police who allegedly lathi-charged women.

JD(S) youth wing chief Nikhil Kumaraswamy demanded strict action against those carrying lethal weapons during the clashes.CM Siddaramaiah dismissed charges of misrule and accused BJP of stoking tension. "We'll show no mercy and take strict action against those involved in the clashes," the CM said. District minister N Cheluvarayaswamy added: "BJP is responsible for disturbing the peace in Mandya."