Davanagere Police Assault: Constable Hospitalized After Violent Clash Involving Political Affiliates
A seemingly minor altercation between youths in Davanagere spiraled into a serious assault on police personnel, resulting in the hospitalization of Constable Kenchappa and triggering widespread public condemnation. The incident, which unfolded over Saturday night, has exposed the volatile mix of local disputes and political affiliations in the region.
From Personal Dispute to Public Outrage
The conflict originated from a disagreement between individuals connected to prominent political families. Specifically, a friend associated with JD(S) leader J Amanulla Khan's son clashed with a friend linked to Congress leader Ayub Pailwan's son. This initial skirmish left several participants injured, setting the stage for further violence.
Matters escalated dramatically on Saturday afternoon when Ayub Pailwan's son allegedly launched an attack on members of J Amanulla Khan's group who were receiving treatment at Chigateri District Hospital for injuries sustained in the earlier fight. This brazen act at a medical facility intensified tensions, leading to another physical confrontation between the two sides.
Police Intervention Turns Violent
When police arrived to control the situation, they found themselves significantly outnumbered. Officers struggled to manage the hostile crowd and eventually resorted to a mild baton charge to disperse the gathering. The situation took a more sinister turn later when police attempted to arrest the accused at Ayub Pailwan's residence.
According to police sources, Ayub Pailwan's sons, Haseen and Hussein, along with their relative Hamza, engaged in a heated argument with the officers before physically assaulting them. The accused reportedly snatched Inspector Gayatri's mobile phone and severely assaulted constables Kenchappa and Harish. Inspector Gayatri was pushed during the altercation, causing her to fall.
Constable Kenchappa sustained significant injuries in the attack and was subsequently admitted to Chigateri District Hospital for treatment. His condition has become a focal point of public sympathy and anger toward the perpetrators.
Official Response and Investigation
A police team led by City DYSP B Sharanabasaveshwar quickly responded to the scene following the assault. Law enforcement authorities have registered three separate cases in connection with the incident, including a suo motu case, and have launched a comprehensive investigation.
Davanagere District In-charge minister SS Mallikarjun addressed the situation with a firm stance, stating, "No one is above the law. Whoever is guilty should be arrested. There are no 2 ways about it. I am not protecting anyone." This statement has been interpreted as a clear message that political connections will not shield those involved from legal consequences.
Broader Implications and Community Reaction
The assault on police officers performing their duty has generated substantial public outrage in Davanagere. Community members have expressed particular anger at what they perceive as obstruction of police work and physical violence against law enforcement personnel. The incident has raised questions about the influence of political affiliations on local disputes and the challenges faced by police in maintaining order when confronting well-connected individuals.
As the investigation progresses, all eyes remain on how authorities will handle a case that intertwines personal conflict, political associations, and attacks on public servants. The hospitalization of Constable Kenchappa serves as a stark reminder of the risks police officers face while attempting to maintain peace in volatile situations.
