Situation in Haveri peaceful

Hubli, Dec 19 (UNI) The situation in Haveri city of Haveri district remained peaceful since last night after violence yesterday in which a Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation was set ablaze and APMC office ransacked.

According to official sources, police have arrested 53 people in connection with the violent incidents and stone pelting. Tender process at APMC commenced this morning amid tight police security for purchase of cotton.

The trouble started when hamals (coolies) fought among themselves over a petty matter and refused to lift cotton bales. Enraged by their behaviour, the farmers in the APMC premises started pelting stones and ransacked the office, besides setting afire a bus and a two-wheeler.

Five policemen, including a sub-inspector, and several farmers were injured in the violence. Vehicular traffic on Pune-Bangalore national highway was disrupted for over four hours.

The injured were treated as outpatients at the district hospital in Haveri, the sources added.

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