Davanagere/Bengaluru: A flex banner installed for Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations in Davanagere’s Metikal area has triggered communal tension after it depicted Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj slaying Afzal Khan.
Hundreds of people gathered at the spot, chanting “Jai Bhavani, Jai Shivaji,” as police attempted to remove the controversial banner. The incident created an atmosphere of chaos and confrontation between Hindu organizations and police authorities.
According to sources, local Muslim groups had earlier submitted a request to police for the banner’s removal, citing sensitivity. Acting on the request, police attempted to clear the Shivaji banner, but Hindu Jagaran Vedike leaders, including Satish Pujar and former mayor S.T. Veeresh, opposed the move. They questioned why Tipu Sultan banners in other parts of the city were not removed first, alleging double standards in enforcement.
The protest soon escalated into a standoff, with pushing and heated arguments between police and Hindu activists. Eventually, police relented and postponed the banner removal until morning to avoid further escalation.
Organizers defended their decision, stating:
“We have put up portraits of Veer Savarkar, Tilak, and Chhatrapati Shivaji to remind today’s youth about true freedom fighters and their sacrifices. Depicting Shivaji Maharaj defeating Afzal Khan symbolizes courage, patriotism, and the protection of dharma.”
Hindu groups insisted that only after Tipu Sultan banners are taken down will they consider discussions on removing the Shivaji poster.
The district administration, meanwhile, faces criticism for adopting what activists called “one rule for some, another for others.” Authorities stressed the need for maintaining communal harmony during Ganesh Utsav and urged both communities to cooperate.
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