The Hubballi Police have arrested 17 persons in connection with Friday’s stone pelting incidents, in protest against an offensive photograph being circulated through an instant messaging application.
Hubballi Dharwad Police Commissioner Ravindra Prasad told The Hindu that the situation was peaceful but as a precautionary measure, prohibitory orders would be in place till Saturday evening within the limits of four police stations in South Sub-division and one police station in North Sub-division of the Police Commissionerate.
Meanwhile, bandobast has been intensified in sensitive areas of the city. On Saturday, some police officials were seen doing spot inspection of the vehicles damaged during the stone pelting.
Members of the Students Islamic Organisation of India have appealed to residents to maintain peace and not pay heed to rumours. Prasad Abbayya, MLA, too has appealed to the people to maintain peace.
