One Dalit killed in clashes in Ramanagaram

Bangalore, Apr 8: A Dalit youth was killed and another injured in a shoot-out during a clash between Hindus and Dalits at Hararalu village in Kanakapur taluk of Ramanagaram district last night.

According to police sources, the situation was brought under control after district armed police rushed to the village.

Two groups, belonging to Hindus and Dalits, clashed during a village festival, resulting in a shoot-out and the death of the Dalit youth. Another youth also, belonging to the Dalit community, received bullet injuries.

Following the incident, Dalits stoned and damaged houses of Hindus and also set fire to two motorbikes. The incident occurred at about 2200 hrs. One person, who had allegedly opened fire, resulting in the killing, was arrested.

The injured was admitted to a district hospital. The deceased Dalit was identified as Manjunath (24).

The situation in the village was tense but under control.

Additional forces were rushed to the village to prevent any untoward incidents, police added.

In a similar incident in Mandya district yesterday, police lobbed tear gas and also resorted to caning to quell two groups belonging to Hindus and Dalits, who had clashed over an issue of entry into a temple at Jakkanahalli village near Srirangapatna taluk.

UNI