Children Poisoned in Karnataka School in Alleged Plot to Target Muslim Headmaster; Three Arrested
In a deeply disturbing incident, several schoolchildren in Hoolikatti village, Belagavi district, Karnataka, fell ill after consuming poisoned drinking water. Authorities have arrested three suspects, including a local leader of the right-wing Hindu group Sriram Sene. Investigators believe the poisoning was part of a premeditated effort to force the transfer of the school’s Muslim headmaster.
What Happened
The incident occurred when students at a government-run school drank water from a contaminated tank. The water was reportedly laced with insecticide, leading to multiple children falling sick. Thankfully, no fatalities were reported, and all the affected students have since recovered.
Following the incident, police launched an investigation and quickly arrested three individuals: Sagar Patil (a local Sriram Sene leader), Nagangouda Patil, and Krishna Madar. According to police, the latter was coerced into carrying out the act.
Who Was Behind the Poisoning
Authorities allege that Sagar and Nagangouda Patil orchestrated the plan as part of an attempt to discredit Suleman Gorinaik, the school’s headmaster, because of his religious identity. The accused reportedly blackmailed Krishna Madar—threatening to expose his interfaith relationship—into poisoning the school’s water tank.
Madar allegedly bought insecticide, mixed it with juice, and persuaded a student to pour the mixture into the water supply. The goal, police say, was to create a scandal that would result in Gorinaik’s removal and inflame communal tensions in the region.
Investigation and Motive
The poisoning took place two weeks ago, but details only came to light after a thorough investigation involving student interviews and forensic analysis. Law enforcement officials confirmed that the act was part of a larger conspiracy fueled by religious animosity.
Police have labeled the crime as “highly premeditated” and intended to provoke hatred and unrest. Investigators are continuing to gather evidence and determine whether additional individuals were involved.
Public and Political Reaction
The incident has triggered widespread outrage. Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah condemned the attack as “heinous” and “rooted in religious fundamentalism and communal hatred.” He emphasized the severity of the crime, stating that the situation could have resulted in a mass tragedy involving innocent children.
Muslim organizations across Karnataka have called for an immediate ban on Sriram Sene, holding the group responsible for spreading communal animosity. Demonstrations have erupted across the region, with protestors demanding justice and government action. A formal memorandum has been submitted to the Belagavi Deputy Commissioner urging stricter penalties for hate-driven crimes.
Official Response and Next Steps
In response to the incident, the Karnataka government has announced the formation of a special task force to crack down on hate speech and prevent communal violence. Legal proceedings against the accused are underway, and officials have promised swift and decisive action.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah also criticized political leaders—particularly from the BJP—for allegedly promoting religious division for political gain. He vowed that the government would not tolerate such acts of extremism.
Closing
This is an ongoing investigation. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
If you have relevant information, contact local authorities immediately.