Youth killed in Bhatkal communal violence

Bhatkal, Karnataka, Mar 30 (UNI) A 16-year-old boy was killed in fresh violence that erupted in this communally-sensitive town in Uttara Kannada district today, following riots yesterday over the disappearance of an idol from a temple.

Inspector General of Police (Western Range) Suresh Babu told UNI that the boy died after being hit by a soda bottle.

Police had to resort to lathicharge to disperse the clashing groups.

Violence had erupted here yesterday after news spread that the idol of a local deity, worshipped since ages at a temple in Government land near Bandar Road, had gone missing. People belonging to a particularly community, had protested against the disappearance of the idol on the highway at Shamsuddin circle, and turned down a police plea to disperse.

Meanwhile, a group of people from the other community had also taken to the streets and the situation turned violent as both groups indulging in stone pelting. Police had resorted to lathicharge to disperse the groups. Three persons had been injured and several vehicles damaged in the incident.

Prohibitiory orders under section 144 of CrPC have been clamped in the area since last night.

Mr Babu said additional police force have been deployed and the situation was under control.

Top police officials were camping in the area.

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