Group clash at I-Day event causes tension in Hunsur

Two groups of young men clashed over a petty issue during Independence Day celebrations here on Monday, triggering tension in the sleepy town. Police have arrested five people in connection with the violent clash.

It all started during a public speech after unfurling of the Tricolour at the Muneshwara Kaval grounds. One of the miscreants grabbed a knife from a cucumber vendor and assaulted members of the other group. There were, however, no major injuries. Police rushed to the spot and mildly caned the troublemakers to bring the situation under control and disperse the crowd. Miscreants sped off on two-wheelers but returned after a while with another group of youths.

The prime suspect, police said, is Wasim Akram, 23, who is a history-sheeter with 10 cases against him. After police arrested him and took him to the police station, he reportedly consumed phenyl in the toilet in an attempt to commit suicide. He was taken to hospital and treated. Sub-inspector Shanmugam of Hunsur police station told Deccan Herald that Akram was also involved in vandalising a farmhouse owned by the brother of the local MLA.

With tension prevailing in the town, Mysuru Superintendent of Police Abhinav Khare and Assistant SP Kala Krishnamurthy visited Hunsur. Police security has been beefed up.