Shivamogga, Aug 21 (IANS): Unidentified miscreants have vandalised a Mahatma Gandhi statue in a village in Karnataka's Shivamogga district, police said on Monday.

The incident occurred in the Holehonnuru village and the police believe that the vandalisation must have taken place on Sunday night. The incident came to light on Monday.

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah condemned the incident in which unidentified miscreants vandalised the statue of Mahatma Gandhi in Holehonnuru village of Shivamogga district. He has also warned that the guilty in the case would be punished.

“I severely condemn the anti-national act of vandalising the statue of Mahatma Gandhi. Those who have scantiest respect for the freedom movement of this land, Constitution and law can indulge in this heinous act. We will initiate strict action and sternly punish those who are behind this lowly act. I request the people not to take law into their hands and maintain peace, law and order in the society,” Siddaramaiah stated.

The police have rushed to the spot and begun an investigation in the case. Police explain that the statue was installed at the main junction of the village 18 years ago.

The reason for the vandalisation has not been ascertained yet. However, police have started recording the statements in this regard. The statue has been totally vandalised and the people of the village have condemned the act, urging the police to initiate action against the culprits.