Belagavi Hate Speech FIR: Police Book 7 Over Alleged Provocative Acts at Akhanda Hindu Sammelana in Machhe Village
Belagavi hate speech FIR registered after alleged provocative acts at Akhanda Hindu Sammelana in Machhe village, raising concerns over law, free speech, and communal harmony.
The case has been registered by Munsif News 24×7 based on official police action and local complaints, without reliance on external reports.
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What Happened at the Akhanda Hindu Sammelana?
According to the complaint, the incident took place on January 18, 2026, during the Akhanda Hindu Sammelana held in Machhe village, located in rural Belagavi.
Police allege that:
- A procession passing through the village included provocative gestures and speeches.
- Near the Ansari Dargah area in Piranwadi limits, an act resembling a symbolic arrow-shooting gesture was made.
- The gesture and accompanying speech were viewed by locals as targeting a particular religious community.
These actions allegedly created fear and discomfort among residents in an already sensitive locality.
FIR Registered After Local Complaint
The case was registered following a formal complaint by Abdul Khadar Mujawar, a local resident. Acting on the complaint, Belagavi Rural Police booked seven individuals for alleged violations related to:
- Hurting religious sentiments
- Promoting enmity between communities
- Unlawful assembly
- Public mischief and disturbance of peace
The investigation is being conducted under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), with procedural inquiry initiated under BNSS Section 173.
Who Are the Accused?
Among those named in the Belagavi hate speech FIR is Harshita Thakur, along with six others:
- Suprit Simpi
- Shrikant Kamble
- Bittappa Tarihal
- Gangaram Tarihal
- Shivaji Shahapurkar
- Mallappa
Police allege that the group:
- Installed banners and event setups without official permission
- Proceeded with activities despite the area being marked as sensitive
No Arrests Yet, Investigation Intensifies
As of now:
- No arrests have been made
- Police are examining:
- Video recordings
- Social media clips
- Eyewitness statements
Officials stated that intent and impact will be key factors. If evidence confirms deliberate provocation, arrests may follow in the coming days.
Belagavi: A Border-Sensitive District on Alert
Belagavi’s location near the Karnataka–Maharashtra border makes it particularly vulnerable to communal escalation. The district has witnessed tensions in the past, prompting authorities to act swiftly.
Following the FIR:
- Additional police patrols have been deployed
- Intelligence units are monitoring local and online developments
- Authorities confirmed no major escalation so far
Free Speech or Provocation? Public Opinion Divided
The case has ignited debate across social media and civil circles:
- Supporters argue the incident falls under free expression
- Critics claim it reflects deliberate hate politics meant to inflame communal sentiments
Police maintain that the investigation will remain evidence-driven, not opinion-based.
Why This Case Matters
The Belagavi hate speech FIR goes beyond one event or one gathering. It highlights a thin legal line between:
- Expression and incitement
- Faith and provocation
- Assembly rights and public order
In regions like Belagavi, even symbolic acts can have real-world consequences, making law enforcement vigilance crucial.
In summary, the Belagavi hate speech FIR underscores the responsibility that comes with public platforms, especially in sensitive areas. With the investigation at a crucial stage, facts, intent, and evidence will determine the next course of action.
Munsif News 24×7 will continue to monitor developments closely and provide verified, ground-level updates as the case progresses.
What’s your view?
Was it an expression of belief or an act of provocation? Share your thoughts responsibly.
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