Daijiworld Media Network – Belagavi

Belagavi, May 16: Four individuals have been arrested in connection with an alleged act of vandalism at a religious site in Santi Bastawad village, Belagavi district, police said on Thursday. The incident reportedly took place in April.

The arrested have been identified as Lakshman Yallappa Uchawade (30), Muttappa Bharma Uchawade (26), Lakshman Nagappa Nayak (30), and Shivaraj Yallappa Gudli (29).

According to Belagavi Police Commissioner Iada Martin Marbaniang, the accused allegedly damaged parts of the site, including four domes and some nearby structures. They are also suspected of involvement in the defacement of grave markers and plaques.

Following their confession, the arrests were made on May 15. “We have collected substantial evidence. Further investigation is underway,” Commissioner Marbaniang stated.

In response to the developments, members of the local community held a peaceful protest on Thursday at Chennamma Circle in Belagavi city. They urged authorities to take swift action and ensure that incidents targeting places of worship or cultural importance are thoroughly investigated.

Amid ongoing inquiries, police reported the discovery of partially burnt religious materials in an open field near Santi Bastawad on May 15. Authorities are examining the circumstances surrounding this incident separately.

In light of possible lapses in initial response and oversight, a police inspector from Belagavi Rural Police Station has been suspended pending departmental inquiry, officials confirmed.

The situation remains calm, and police have appealed to the public to maintain peace and cooperate with the ongoing investigation.