In a disturbing incident in Channagiri town, located in Davanagere district, Karnataka, an Islamist mob vandalized the local police station and torched multiple police vehicles. This act of violence resulted in injuries to at least 11 police personnel and the destruction of around eight police vehicles. The mob was reacting to the alleged custodial death of a 30-year-old gambling accused named Adil in the early hours of Saturday, May 25th.
The Incident in Karnataka
Adil, a carpenter by profession, was detained by the police on Friday, May 24th, under suspicion of involvement in matka gambling. It is a popular form of betting in North Karnataka. According to the police, Adil’s health deteriorated shortly after he was brought to the police station. Within six to seven minutes of his detention, he reportedly collapsed. He was immediately rushed to the hospital, where he was declared brought dead.
Davangere Superintendent of Police Uma Prashanth clarified the sequence of events, stating,
“We detained Adil under suspicion of involvement in matka gambling, but he collapsed within 6-7 minutes of his arrival at the station. He was rushed to the hospital.”
The SP also mentioned that Adil’s parents had been informed and were convinced of the circumstances surrounding his death. An initial medical examination suggested that Adil died due to low blood pressure, and no injury marks were found on his body.
Aftermath and Violence
Despite the police explaining, Adil’s death sparked anger among his relatives and a large crowd of protesters. They congregated at the Channagiri police station, accusing the police of causing Adil’s death in custody and resorting to violence. The mob damaged the police station, hurled stones, and set fire to police vehicles. The situation escalated, leading the police to employ mild force to contain the crowd. However, the violence persisted until additional police forces arrived and dispersed the mob using lathi charges.
Karnataka Government’s Response
In response to the incident, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced the suspension of the Deputy Superintendent of Police and the Channagiri police station inspector. However, he emphasized that Adil’s death was not a result of police custody.
“The accused used to get fits. That’s why I said that summoning him to the police station was wrong. The Deputy SP and police inspector have been suspended because, without FIR, no one can be brought to the police station,” said the Chief Minister.
The Chief Minister clarified that the suspension was due to procedural lapses, specifically detaining Adil without filing a First Information Report, which is illegal. Home Minister G. Parameshwara echoed the Chief Minister’s statement. He attributed Adil’s death to health issues rather than custodial violence.
Political Repercussions in Karnataka
The incident has sparked political controversy. The principal opposition party, BJP, criticizing the Congress-led state government for failing to maintain law and order. The BJP has demanded the resignation of the state Home Minister. He accused the government of neglecting its duties.
Legal Actions
In the wake of the violence, the police have registered three FIRs. They filed one FIR against the police personnel involved, based on a complaint from Adil’s father. Additionally, they lodged FIRs against those involved in the mob violence. The police are currently identifying the attackers using video footage and other evidence to bring them to justice.
The authorities have shifted Adil’s body to a government hospital and will hand it over to his family after a postmortem examination, conducted in the presence of a Magistrate. SP Uma Prashanth assured that additional police forces are patrolling the area to maintain order and that further action will depend on the postmortem report.