Daijiworld Media Network – Beltangady (MS)

Beltangady, Jul 13: Thatched roof of Swami Koragajja shrine at Badaru of Bajire village at Venur was burnt by miscreants on Tuesday. Venur police registered case in this regard against five people and arrested one.

The arrested is identified as Harish Poojary (48), a resident of Badaru. Cases are filed against Dr Rajesh, Ramesh Kudmer, Om Prasad and Prashant Bantwal.

The Koragajja Katte which stands on the government land was venerated by Badaru Koragakallu Shree Koragajja Seva trust as well the villagers. Harish Poojary used to conduct pooja to the Katte. However, there was dispute with regards to the land. The accused attempted to demolish the katte and put a new foundation stone. However, it was objected by Pradeep Kumar, president of the trust and other devotees. Later, the trust members continued offering pooja at the old Koragajja Katte with a thatched roof.

At around 10.30 am on Tuesday, fire was seen on the thatched roof of the shrine. Locals put off the fire immediately. Prima facie it looked as if the fire was caught accidentally from the mud lamp. However, Pradeep Kumar Hedge, president of the trust filed a complaint against Harish Poojary accusing him of lighting fire due to instigation by others.

DySP Gana Kumar, tahsildar Suresh Kumar and SI Soumya visited the spot. Harish has been sent to 14 days of judicial custody.

The revenue officials visited the spot and have banned the entry of public to the shrine at present as it has come to light that prima facie this is a land related dispute.