A banner proclaiming “We stand with Palestine” was put up in Karnataka’s Shivamogga district, causing a stir within the local community. The banner, which appeared two to three days ago, quickly became a focal point of political and social debate.
Responding to the situation, former Karnataka Home Minister and BJP leader Araga Jnanendra took swift action. In a letter addressed to district authorities, Jnanendra called for the immediate removal of the banner, referring to it as an act that threatened communal harmony. He stated that the banner was erected during the Eid procession.
“This kind of banner, which goes against the unity of the country, sows seeds of disharmony in our society,” Jnanendra stated in his letter. He also referenced the involvement of local residents in past terror incidents, such as the Mangaluru cooker blast case and the Bangalore Rameshwaram cafe blast, both of which have heightened anxieties in Theerthahalli. “The people are already in fear. Incidents like these only add to the tension,” he added.
Acting on the letter, the police registered a First Information Report (FIR) against unidentified individuals responsible for putting up the banner. While the accused are yet to be arrested, authorities swiftly removed the banner the same day it was discovered.
The Shivamogga police confirmed the investigation is ongoing, with officers stating that they are taking “necessary steps” to maintain peace and order in the district.
