Karnataka Home Minister Araka Gyanendra has accused the government of “planning this attack in advance”.
A person has been arrested in Dharwad district of Karnataka on a complaint that he had posted on social networking sites insulting the Muslim community. But the public staged a protest at midnight before the old Hubli police station, accusing them of not taking appropriate action against the arrested person. A mob then hurled stones at the police station. Twelve guards, including an inspector, were injured in the attack. Following this, the police used light sticks and tear gas to disperse the mob. Police say 144 restraining orders have been issued in the city following the violence.
Hubli-Dharwad police commissioner Labu Ram said 40 people had been arrested in connection with the violence and the situation was now under control.
Speaking to reporters on the occasion, state Home Minister Araka Gyanendra said that the health of an injured police officer was in critical condition and he was being given intensive treatment as it was a premeditated attack.
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