Daijiworld Media Network - Moodbidri (SP)

Moodbidri, Apr 10: The tahsildar here arranged for the clearance of a Daivada Kattr (platform meant for Daiva) which reportedly was erected on Monday April 9 on government land at Kotebagilu here a few days back.

On this occasion, strong words were exchanged between two groups which had gathered at the point. Locals who alleged that the nearby mosque has encroached upon government land illegally, have been demanding to get that encroachment too cleared.

A stone form of the Daiva is located beside Badriya Jumma Masjid of Kotebagilu. The same is dedicated to Pilichamundi Daiva of Mahammayi temple at Kotebagilu here. This stone form was worshipped regularly since long. In the recent past, as per divine instructions passed on through the Daiva Patri, devotees had built a platform adjacent to the stone. On behalf of the neighbouring mosque, a complaint had been filed against the erection of the platform. Based on this complaint, the tahsildar ordered to demolish the platform, which was objected by Hindu leaders and management of Mahammayi temple. The situation turned tense because of this tussle.

Even after the tahsildar instructed the staff to demolish the platform the employees were hesitant to execute the order. Thereafter, civic workers were summoned to demolish it. The equipment used for the platform was taken over by the tahsildar.

The temple management insisted that the revenue department should be strict with the mosque too. It demanded for taking measurement of the mosque as per records and clear portion of it that encroaches government land. Tahsildar, Shivashankarappa, promised to take this step if a written complaint is filed.