Belagavi: Tension has gripped Belagavi city after a banner face-off between two groups — “I Love Mohammad” and “I Love Jai Shree Ram.”
What began as a single religious banner has now escalated into a public display of counter-slogans, heightening law-and-order concerns across several localities.
According to sources, the controversy began in Khadak Galli, where an “I Love Mohammad” banner was installed earlier this week. The move triggered sharp protests from Hindu activists, who soon retaliated by putting up a counter-banner reading “I Love Jai Shree Ram.” The Hindu group’s banner also carried a line in Marathi stating, “Our love will always be for Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj — have you forgotten the Battle of Pratapgad?”
Residents say such banners have now become common across parts of Belagavi city, including several bylanes where rival groups are competing to display their messages more prominently. The situation has worsened due to alleged police inaction and municipal negligence. Despite visible tension and reports of stone-pelting in certain areas, officials have reportedly failed to remove the banners promptly.
Locals have accused both the police and the city corporation of “passing responsibility” between departments instead of taking coordinated action. “Earlier, these banners were restricted to a few spots, but now almost every street has one. It’s creating unnecessary communal provocation,” said a resident.
Police have now stepped up vigilance in sensitive areas and assured that strict action will be taken against those disturbing peace and harmony. Meanwhile, civic authorities are under pressure to remove all unauthorized banners to prevent further escalation.
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