Tensions erupted in Hanakere village, Mandya district, on Sunday after district authorities allowed Dalits to enter the Kalabhairaveshwara Swamy Temple for the first time. In response, upper-caste villagers, mainly Vokkaligas, removed the temple's Utsava Murthy (festival idol) and conducted rituals outside the temple. The dispute traces back to the temple's history, where Dalits had long been denied entry.
The temple, which was in a dilapidated state, was demolished three years ago, and a new structure was built. The temple, now under the control of the state's Religious Endowment Department, recently granted Dalits permission to enter after discussions with local officials and police aimed at promoting inclusivity. However, some villagers, citing tradition and their financial contributions to the temple's renovation, opposed the decision.
They argued that a separate temple for Dalits had already been built in the village. The conflict intensified as tensions rose over the long-standing issue of exclusion. A heavy police presence has been deployed in Hanakere to maintain order amidst the unrest.
The situation remains volatile, with villagers divided over the issue of access to the historic temple..