'We Stand With Palestine' Poster Spotted in Karnataka's Shivamogga, BJP Writes to Officials

Bengaluru: A banner with the message "We stand with Palestine" was put up in Karnataka's Shivamogga district a few days ago, causing concern among local residents. The banner was displayed during an Eid procession, leading to political intervention and a police investigation.

BJP leader and former Karnataka Home Minister, Araga Jnanendra, quickly responded to the situation by writing a letter to district authorities, urging them to take immediate action. He called for the removal of the banner and requested strict measures against those responsible.

In his letter, Jnanendra wrote, “This kind of banner, which goes against the unity of the country, sows seeds of disharmony in our society. The accused in the Mangaluru cooker blast case and the Bangalore Rameshwaram café blast hailed from Theerthahalli, and this has brought panic among the residents of Theerthahalli.”

"The people are already in fear. Incidents like these only add to the tension," he added. He expressed concerns that the banner could disturb peace in the area, particularly in light of past terror incidents involving local individuals. 

Acting on the letter, the district administration took down the banner on the same day, and the Shivamogga police registered a First Information Report (FIR) against unknown individuals. The accused have not yet been arrested, and the investigation is ongoing.

Previous Incidents Stirring Communal Tensions

This incident follows a series of similar events that have sparked unrest in different parts of Karnataka.

Last week, in Chikkamagaluru, a protest erupted after three people were seen riding a motorcycle with a large Palestinian flag. The video of the event went viral, showing the individuals driving towards Hanumanthappa Circle. The display of the flag led to unrest among Pro-Hindu groups, including the Bajrang Dal and BJP workers, who demanded immediate action.

BJP Yuva Morcha district president Santosh Kotian said, "During the Eid Milad, youths with anti-national sentiments carried out a jatha holding the Palestinian flag. The youths should be arrested immediately."

Two individuals have been detained in connection with the incident, and investigations are ongoing. No FIR has been registered yet, but authorities are working to identify all those involved.

Attempt to Hoist Palestinian Flag in Kunigal

Earlier, on August 15, a similar situation unfolded in Kunigal town, Karnataka, where a group attempted to raise a Palestinian flag at a government-organized event. The individuals involved fled the scene after being confronted by another group, preventing further escalation.

The Shivamogga police and district administration continue to monitor the situation closely, taking necessary steps to maintain peace in the region.