Bhatkal: Police have arrested eight persons in connection with the tension that erupted in Bhatkal following a dispute over the relocation of the “Murin Katte” structure in Nawayath Colony on Sunday evening. Authorities said efforts are underway to trace several other youths identified through video footage, while extensive security arrangements have been put in place across the town.

The controversy began after a new structure was being constructed at a nearby roadside location as part of plans to relocate the existing Murin Katte. Local residents strongly objected to the move, following which organisations affiliated with the Sangh Parivar staged protests. The situation later turned tense and continued late into the night.

Addressing reporters on Monday, Uttara Kannada Superintendent of Police Deepan M.N. clarified that the original Murin Katte remains intact at its existing location and had neither been damaged nor removed.

He said misinformation circulating on social media and in certain media reports claiming that the structure had been demolished had created panic among the public and contributed to the escalation of tensions.

The SP explained that the construction of a new structure at an alternative site was being carried out in view of the ongoing National Highway four-laning project. However, the work had remained incomplete due to rain. Later in the evening, hundreds of people reportedly gathered at the site and objected to the construction of the structure, after which viral social media messages further aggravated the situation.

Police said four separate cases have been registered in connection with the incident, and action is continuing against those involved. The SP stated that the situation is currently under control and that prohibitory orders have been imposed in the area until May 27 as a precautionary measure.

Inspector General of Police Amit Singh, Deputy Commissioner Lakshmi Priya and other senior officials also reached Bhatkal on Monday and are closely monitoring the situation. Meanwhile, police conducted a route march in the town on Monday evening to instill confidence among the public and maintain law and order.