Freedom fighter Rayanna’s statue: BELAGAVI TENSE

Marathi-speaking people and followers of Maratha ruler Shivaji spilled onto the streets of Peeranwadi, a village in Belagavi district bordering Maharashtra, on Friday objecting to the installation of a statue of 18th century warrior and freedom fighter Sangolli Rayanna at the same spot where there were plans to install a statue of Shivaji Maharaj.

While pro-Kannada activists celebrated the installation of the statue of Rayanna, several Marathispeaking people staged protests leading to tension.

Pro-Kannada activists installed the statue of Rayanna at a road junction in Peeranwadi in the cover of darkness on Thursday and Marathis said the spot was meant for a statue of Shivaji Maharaj, after whom the circle is named. Police used batons to disperse the crowd. More forces were called in to manage the situation.

CM BS Yediyurappa said he has spoken to Belagavi deputy commissioner and other officials and has given them necessary instructions. "I have told officials without differentiating between Kannadigas and Marathis, the situation should be handled delicately and issues should be resolved... everything is peaceful now, everyone is cooperating. I thank the people for this. everything will be resolved,” he told reporters.

Home Minister Basavaraj Bommai said police have taken stringent measures to control the situation and he has spoken to Belagavi top cop and IG, ADGP Law and Order is visiting the spot.

Bommai tweeted, “The state govt is in favour of Kannadigas and was committed to protecting their interest. I have asked ADGP (L&O) to look into the FIR. He is already at the spot and I have instructed him to hold a peace meet and resolve the issue cordially.”