Unknown Persons Place Chadar Near Kodagu Temple; Pro-Hindu Group Stages Protest

After learning about the incident, members of the Hindu Hitarakshana Samiti reached the temple premises and removed the chadar and flower petals.

Virajpet: Tension prevailed near the historic Gadduge Betta Sri Siddeshwara Temple at Maldare in Siddapura, Kodagu, on Sunday after unknown persons allegedly placed a chadar and showered flower petals near the temple, prompting protests by members of a pro-Hindu organisation.

According to local sources, a group of unidentified individuals arrived at the temple, which is located within a wildlife sanctuary, placed the chadar and scattered flower petals before recording the act on mobile phones. The video was later circulated on social media, triggering outrage among sections of the local community.

After learning about the incident, members of the Hindu Hitarakshana Samiti reached the temple premises and removed the chadar and flower petals.

According to a Deccan Chronicle report, Hindu Hitarakshana Samiti leader Bhojegowda alleged that the temple, believed to date back to the Chola dynasty, is held in high reverence by devotees. He claimed that "Islamic fundamentalists" had attempted to construct a ghori (tomb) near the temple and alleged that one such structure already exists close to the sanctum sanctorum, describing it as an attempt to encroach upon temple land.

Bhojegowda further alleged that despite the temple being situated on forest land, no action had been taken against those responsible for hurting the religious sentiments of devotees. He also criticised the police for their alleged inaction.

Members of the Hindu Hitarakshana Samiti later staged a road blockade condemning the incident. Bhojegowda claimed that a large number of local Hindu residents supported the protest.

Sources said the Sri Siddeshwara Temple is situated near the border of Siddapura in Kodagu district and Periyapatna taluk of Mysuru district, attracting devotees from both regions.

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