Heavy police alert continues in Maddur ahead of BJP-backed bandh after Ganesh immersion clashes

Maddur town remained on high alert on Tuesday as authorities prepared for a bandh called by the BJP following communal clashes during Sunday’s Ganesha immersion procession.

The bandh, also supported by the party’s ally JD(S), has prompted a heavy police presence, with around 800 personnel—including Superintendents of Police, Additional SPs, and Karnataka State Reserve Police—deployed to maintain order.

Prohibitory measures and liquor restrictions have been put in place to ensure the situation stays peaceful, even as local residents and traders brace for disruptions.


Mandya Superintendent of Police Mallikarjun Baladandi told PTI that around 800 personnel, including four Superintendents of Police, Additional SPs, and Karnataka State Reserve Police forces, have been deployed as a precaution.

"The situation is under control and peaceful. Prohibitory orders are in place till tomorrow morning. Adequate forces have been deployed, and liquor sales have been prohibited," he added.

Police have registered two FIRs related to the Sunday clashes, one filed suo motu and another following a complaint from an injured person. So far, 22 arrests have been made.

The stone-pelting incident, which reportedly started about 500 metres from a mosque, triggered retaliation from the procession. Police intervened with mild lathi charges to disperse the groups, while Hindu activists staged protests, chanting “Jai Sri Ram,” burning tyres, and waving saffron flags.

The BJP on Monday announced a bandh in Maddur for September 9, following communal clashes during the Ganesha immersion procession on Sunday. The call was made by BJP Mandya district president Indresh N S, and the party’s ally JD(S) extended its full support.