Belagavi Rural Police have arrested four individuals in connection with a case involving an attempt to hurt religious sentiments in Santibastwad village. The incident, which dates back to April, came to light during the ongoing investigation into a more recent case of alleged desecration of religious scriptures in the same village.
City Police Commissioner Iada Martin confirmed on Thursday that the arrests were made based on an incident reported on April 12. According to the complaint filed by Mahmudgaussab Tehsildar, offensive messages were written, and vandalism was carried out at a place of worship in Santibastwad, causing distress to the local community. The acts were discovered around 7:30 AM on April 13.
The arrested individuals have been identified as Laxman Yallappa Uchwade (30), Muttappa Bharma Uchwade (26), Laxman Nagappa Nayak (30), and Shivraj Yallappa Guddi (29) — all residents of Santibastwad.
A case has been registered against them under relevant sections about the hurting of religious sentiments. The Belagavi Rural Police are continuing the investigation to determine any further links and involvement.
Authorities have appealed to the public to maintain peace and allow the law to take its course.