Instances of violence sparked by religious tension continue to be reported from various parts of the country. Hubli in Karnataka was another addition to the list on April 16, after a mob allegedly pelted stones at a police station.
Over 10 police personnel, including an inspector, were reportedly injured in the attack. The mob also allegedly vandalised police vehicles. The attackers were dispelled using mild lathi-charge and tear gas.
Subsequently, police arrested around 40 people, while prohibitory orders were also imposed. The spark for the violence was an allegedly objectionable post on social media targeting the Muslim community.
Police claimed that the person behind the social media post was arrested, but a group was not satisfied with the action, and went on rampage on the intervening night of April 16 and 17.
Karnataka Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai alleged that some organisations were behind the violence.