Govinda Naik and BJP Activists Detained in Bhatkal After Midnight Attempt to Reach Disputed Murin Katte Site
Police stopped BJP activists from entering the disputed site as tension continued late into the night near National Highway 66.
Bhatkal remained tense past midnight as the dispute over the Murin Katte structure near National Highway 66 continued to draw crowds and heavy police presence.
According to reports, BJP activists, including former Uttara Kannada district BJP president Govinda Naik, gathered near the disputed location late at night and allegedly tried to move towards the site.
Police personnel who were already deployed in the area stopped the group from entering the disputed spot. This led to verbal arguments between the activists and police officials.
The situation remained sensitive as officers worked to prevent any further escalation. Security had been tightened around the area following earlier protests and arguments over the structure.
Police later detained Govinda Naik and several BJP activists as a preventive measure after they allegedly tried to enter the disputed site despite restrictions.
The Murin Katte issue has created tension in Bhatkal over the past few days, with police and district officials appealing to people from all sides to maintain peace and avoid actions that could disturb public order.
Authorities are expected to continue monitoring the situation closely, especially in sensitive areas of the town.