Violent Clash Mars Temple Festival in Kollam, Multiple Injuries Reported
A temple festival in Kollam district turned violent on Saturday night, resulting in several injuries and prompting police action. The incident occurred at the Sree Durga Bhadra Bhagavathi Temple near Njaliyodu in Elampalloor, where a clash erupted during the celebrations.
Police Register Case Against Four Accused
Kundara police have registered a case against four individuals identified as Ajo, Harijith, Ashokan, and Aagi, all residents of Elampalloor. The complaint was filed by Rahul, a 35-year-old local who was among those injured in the attack. Police have launched a thorough investigation based on his statement.
Injured Include Family Members and Locals
The injured victims include Rahul's parents, Anitha and Radhakrishnan, as well as his brother-in-law Sarath and a local named Joji. Authorities reported that several other devotees sustained minor injuries in the ensuing chaos, highlighting the severity of the incident.
Root Cause: Personal Grievance Over Temple Festival
Investigators revealed that the attack was motivated by a personal grievance. Ajo, the first accused, blamed the temple for his brother's death in a road accident approximately two-and-a-half months ago. He had demanded the cancellation of this year's annual festival, claiming the shrine was inauspicious.
When the temple committee rejected his request and proceeded with the celebrations, tensions escalated in the locality. This decision set the stage for the violent confrontation that followed.
Armed Intrusion and Vandalism at Temple Premises
According to police reports, the accused trespassed into the temple premises armed with swords and sticks. They threatened to halt the festival, with witnesses stating that Ajo brandished a sword, causing panic among devotees. The group then allegedly attacked those present.
In addition to the assaults, the accused vandalised sound systems and other equipment at the venue. The estimated losses from this destruction amount to Rs 4 lakh, further compounding the impact of the incident.
Legal Actions and Ongoing Probe
A case has been registered under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, and Section 27 of the Arms Act. Police have assured that further action will be taken as the investigation progresses, aiming to bring the perpetrators to justice and restore peace in the community.
The clash has raised concerns about security during religious events in the area, with authorities likely to review measures to prevent such incidents in the future.
