Mangaluru: Amid an ongoing debate over the conduct of ‘Koli Anka’ during the annual Garodi Kshetra festival here, police have registered an FIR against unidentified persons for allegedly circulating provocative content on social media.
The complaint was filed by Padmaraj Poojary, a Billava community leader and treasurer of the Kudroli Gokarnanatheshwara Temple, who alleged that objectionable and inflammatory posts were being shared on platforms such as Facebook and Instagram. Based on the complaint, Kankanady police have registered a case and launched an investigation.
The controversy centres around ‘Koli Anka’, a traditional event associated with the Garodi fair. While some devotees maintain that it is merely a recreational activity and not an integral ritual of the festival, others have been insisting that the event should be allowed to continue.
Provocative content alleged
According to the complaint, a post titled “Kalyug Kalki Post” has been widely circulated on social media. The content allegedly hurts religious sentiments and has the potential to create unrest, promote enmity and disturb public peace.
“Misuse of social media to spread false propaganda is illegal and poses a serious threat to social harmony,” Poojary said, adding that he has sought strict legal action against those responsible.
Expressing anguish over the posts, he said content that maligns faith, devotion and religious beliefs cannot be tolerated. As a gesture aimed at promoting peace and harmony, he announced a special prayer at the Garodi premises in Kankanady at 6 pm on Monday.
Poojary also appealed to those involved in circulating the content to introspect and adopt the path of peace and tolerance. “Any differences must be expressed through restraint, cultural values and lawful means,” he said.
He further clarified that there had been no misuse of administrative machinery in connection with the conduct of ‘Koli Anka’ and that no pressure had been exerted on authorities to stop the event.
