Bike-Borne Miscreants Raise Palestinian Flag in Karnataka's Chikkamagaluru, Protests Erupt

Chikkamagaluru: A massive protest erupted in Karnataka's Chikkamagaluru, after three individuals were seen riding a motorcycle with a large Palestinian flag. The incident has provoked strong reactions from Pro-Hindu organisations.

The video of the incident, which went viral on social media amid International Day of Democracy observances across the state, shows three people on a scooter carrying the Palestinian flag, heading towards Hanumanthappa Circle on the road over Dantaramakki Lake. Another group of three individuals followed on a separate bike, also displaying a flag.

The pillion rider on the motorcycle was seen holding the flag, which led to unrest among local Pro-Hindu groups. Members of Bajrang Dal and BJP workers gathered at the town police station, demanding the immediate arrest of those involved. BJP Yuva Morcha district president Santosh Kotian stated, "During the Eid Milad, youths with anti-national sentiments carried out a jatha holding the Palestinian flag. The youths should be arrested immediately."

Kotian further expressed concern, saying, "There has been communal unrest in Nagamangala, and people are anxious. Tomorrow is Eid Milad, and Ganesh processions are scheduled in the next two days. During such a sensitive time, these individuals are holding Palestinian flags to create unrest."

The police have retrieved CCTV footage and are working to identify and nab the suspects. Although the identities of those involved have not yet been confirmed, two individuals have been taken into custody and are currently being interrogated. It is alleged that a total of five people were involved, with some riding different bikes. Two minors have also been questioned as part of the investigation.

The accused were reportedly riding on Kadur Road in the city. Despite the protests and written complaints, no FIR has been registered so far, and an inquiry is ongoing. District Additional Superintendent of Police G. Krishnamurthy confirmed that teams have been formed to trace the culprits and that the registration numbers of the two-wheelers have been identified.

Earlier on August 15, an attempt to hoist a Palestinian flag caused tension at the Government College ground in Kunigal town in Karnataka. The flag hoisting ceremony, organised by the Kunigal taluk administration, was attended by Kunigal MLA Dr. Ranganath and other taluk-level officials. During the event, five or six individuals tried to raise a Palestinian flag behind the stage. Their actions were confronted by another group of youths, leading the individuals to flee the scene.