Ballari, 7 Jan

A case has been registered after a meat packet was found on the premises of the Bala Veeranjaneya Temple in the Nagalakere area of Ballari, triggering concern among residents.

The packet was discovered near the Garuda idol of the Venkatesh Temple located within the temple complex. Police are investigating whether the meat was dragged to the spot by a dog or cat or deliberately placed by miscreants.

Temple priest Mahesh Sharma noticed the packet around 5.30am on Friday when he arrived for morning rituals and alerted residents, following which police were informed.

Personnel from the Cowl Bazaar Police Station, along with IGP PS. Harsha, ASP Ravikumar and DySP Nandareddy visited the site and conducted an inspection. A forensic science laboratory team also examined the spot, and police security has been tightened around the temple.

BJP district president Anil Naidu and Congress leaders Jagan and Govinda visited the temple and called for a thorough investigation. Police said the matter is being probed from all angles.