Seven minor boys detained after alleged stone-pelting incident during Taraweeh prayers in Murdeshwar

Bhatkal, 24 February: (Bhatkallys News Bureau) Tension prevailed in Murdeshwar on Monday night after a complaint of stone-throwing at a few houses in the Belur locality led to the detention of seven minor boys.

The alleged incident was reported around 10 pm. Soon after, residents from the area, joined by members of Sangh Parivar groups, assembled outside the local police station seeking registration of a case and demanding firm action. The gathering created a tense atmosphere for a brief period.

Given the sensitivity of the situation, Uttara Kannada District Superintendent of Police Deepan M.N. reached Murdeshwar from Karwar and held discussions with those protesting. He assured them that the matter would be handled strictly in accordance with law, after which the crowd dispersed.

According to police sources, all seven detained are school students from the same class and are below 18 years of age. Family members said the boys had gone out during Ramzan to attend Taraweeh prayers and were later brought to the police station in connection with the complaint. 

Police stated that as the accused are juveniles, they were not kept in the police station but shifted to an authorised juvenile facility as required under procedure. Medical checks have reportedly indicated that a few among them had consumed intoxicating substances.

The minors are expected to be produced before the Juvenile Justice Board in Karwar on Tuesday evening for further proceedings.