VIJAYAPURA, 13 DEC

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah defended the police's use of lathi charge against Panchamasali protesters, asserting that the government cannot overlook unlawful behaviour that disrupts public order.

The clash occurred on Tuesday in Belagavi, where a section of the Panchamasali community, led by Kudalasangama Math's pontiff Basava Jayamruthyunjaya Swami, attempted to besiege the Suvarna Vidhana Soudha. The demonstration escalated into violence, injuring several participants and police officers, necessitating a response from law enforcement.

Siddaramaiah acknowledged the community's request for inclusion in the 2A reservation category, which provides 15 per cent reservation in education and government employment, in contrast to their current status in the 3B category that offers only 5 per cent. He emphasised that while peaceful protests are welcomed, any actions that disrupt public order will not be tolerated.

"The government will not condone individuals taking the law into their own hands," he stated during a press briefing, urging the community to exercise restraint. He reiterated that all citizens, regardless of their status, are subject to the law.

In response to allegations from opposition parties that police resorted to stone-pelting during the protests, Siddaramaiah claimed evidence contradicts this assertion. "If the protesters had not engaged in throwing stones, how did over 20 police officers sustain injuries? Did the police themselves throw the stones?" he questioned, insisting he had photographic evidence of the agitation.

The Chief Minister advised the Panchamasali community to channel their demands through the Permanent Commission for Backward Classes, outlining a path for their grievances to be officially recognised and addressed. Siddaramaiah concluded his remarks by reaffirming that the government will act in accordance with the Constitution in handling such matters.  - PTI