There was tension in Kamalapur town, adjacent to Hampi, on Monday following reports of a board being removed and stones being thrown on a place of worship. Swift action by the police prevented the situation from going out of control.
A procession was taken out in the main streets of the town as part of Shivaji Jayanti. Near the cross leading to Kannada University, some youths tried to put up a flag on top of a tree and also remove the board. This was reportedly prevented by seniors among them and also the police. Meanwhile, there were reports that stones were thrown at a place of worship. Simultaneously, another report spread that a youth was beaten. As news spread, members belonging to the rival communities took to the streets, with one group staging a rasta roko and another, that had gathered near Ambedkar Circle, demanding action against those who had thrown stones.
On getting information, Superintendent of Police R. Chetan rushed to the spot to take stock of the situation besides initiating steps to check tension by promising to take action against the culprits.
Mr. Chetan, who is camping there, told The Hindu that the situation was now under control.