Meat Discovery in Ancient Temple Triggers Tension in Ballari
Tension prevailed in Ballari city on Friday morning after a plastic bag containing meat and bones was found inside the premises of the historic Veera Balanjaneya Temple, located in the Nagalakeri locality. The incident immediately sparked concern among devotees and local residents, leading to swift police intervention and the registration of a formal criminal case.
Priest Alerts Authorities After Early Morning Discovery
According to police reports, the parcel was first noticed by the temple priest during the early morning hours. Preliminary investigations suggest that the plastic bag may have been thrown into the temple compound before the priest's arrival. Upon spotting the meat inside the sacred premises, the priest promptly alerted the police, who rushed to the scene and removed the bag for further examination.
Devotees Gather, Suspect Deliberate Provocation
Following the discovery, a large crowd of devotees gathered at the temple, expressing suspicions that this was a deliberate attempt to hurt religious sentiments. The situation grew tense as residents demanded strict action against those responsible. To maintain law and order and prevent any untoward incidents, police personnel were deployed in and around the temple area.
Police Probe Multiple Angles, Including Animal Involvement
While many local residents and devotees alleged that the act was intentional, police officials stated they are also examining the possibility that street dogs may have carried the plastic bag into the temple premises. Authorities emphasized that the matter is under thorough verification, with all angles being probed to ascertain the truth behind the incident.
Right-Wing Activists and BJP Leaders Voice Concerns
Right-wing activists and BJP leaders alleged that similar incidents have occurred in Ballari district in the past, describing the current situation as a matter of serious concern. They pointed out that the Veera Balanjaneya Temple is a prominent place of worship in the city, attracting a large number of devotees daily, especially during festivals like Vaikunta Ekadashi.
These activists claimed that miscreants had jumped over the temple's compound wall to throw the plastic bag containing meat, which they suspect to be beef, though no forensic examination has been conducted yet. Stating that the incident deeply hurt religious sentiments, they demanded that the accused be identified and arrested within 24 hours, with strict legal action initiated.
Senior Police Officials Visit Site, Appeal for Calm
Ballari Range IGP Harsha PS and ASP KP Ravikumar visited the temple site to inspect the area. Addressing the media, IGP Harsha appealed to the public to remain calm and avoid sensationalizing the incident. He confirmed that a criminal case has been registered at the Cowl Bazaar police station and assured that a transparent investigation would be conducted. Police have maintained a tight vigil in the area as the investigation continues.
Historical and Religious Significance of the Temple
The Veera Balanjaneya Temple is an ancient shrine that also houses idols of Lord Venkateshwara, Lord Ayyappa, and Lord Shiva. During the auspicious Vaikunta Ekadashi festival, thousands of devotees who are unable to visit Tirupati in Andhra Pradesh visit this temple, underscoring its religious importance in the region.
