The protest was led by youth, and yet it was one of the most responsible public demonstrations in recent memory, said Masood Ahmed Taha of the Solidarity Youth Movement
Mohammed Talha Siddi Bapa | Clarion India
BENGALURU — A wave of anguish and indignation swept through Belagavi city in Karnataka as thousands gathered in a powerful yet peaceful protest on Friday (May 16) over the recent desecration of the Noble Qur’an in Santibastwad, a village on the city’s outskirts. The incident, where copies of the Qur’an and a book on Hadith were allegedly removed from an under-construction mosque and set ablaze by unidentified men, has shaken the conscience of the local community and triggered widespread condemnation.
What began as a local outrage gradually escalated into a city-wide movement led by Muslim youth who had been demanding justice for days. With no arrests made by the authorities even after several days of the crime, the youth took the initiative to mobilise the masses, calling for a large-scale protest after Friday noon prayers. The call was met with overwhelming support, as people across Belagavi responded in unity to the youth-led appeal.
The massive rally that began outside Juma Masjid advanced through key city routes and finally reached Rani Channamma Circle, where demonstrators gathered in thousands, expressing their sorrow and anger with placards and slogans. From there, the protest marched towards the Deputy Commissioner’s Office, where a memorandum was formally submitted to DC Mohammed Roshan, urging the government to ensure the swift arrest of the culprits.
Throughout the protest route, a large police force was deployed to maintain order. While the atmosphere remained intense, youth leaders showed notable restraint. Officials had a difficult task containing the emotional momentum of the youth, but through ongoing dialogue and appeals, the situation remained under control.
Despite the charged environment, no incidents of violence, property damage, or arson were reported. “This protest was led by youth, and yet it was one of the most responsible public demonstrations in recent memory,” said Masood Ahmed Taha, President of the Solidarity Youth Movement, Belagavi unit. “We are hurt and angry, but our response must always reflect the values of justice, peace, and maturity taught to us by our faith.”
Senior law enforcement officers, including Police Commissioner Iada Martin Marbaniang and DCP Rohan Jagadish reached the protest venue and engaged directly with youth leaders and community elders. After a series of tense but constructive dialogues, the police assured the demonstrators that all efforts were being made to arrest the culprits at the earliest.
Belagavi North MLA Asif Sait also appealed to the protesters to remain calm and assured them that he was in constant touch with senior government officials. “This is not just a law and order issue; it is about protecting our constitutional values,” he told the gathering.
The Solidarity Youth Movement had earlier submitted a complaint to the Karnataka State Minorities Commission, urging swift investigation and legal action. It reiterated that the Qur’an is a symbol of peace, equality, and divine guidance, and any attempt to defile it is a crime not just against Muslims but against the very idea of India.
As Belagavi returns to calm, all eyes are now on the authorities. The community, particularly its youth, has played its part with dignity and restraint. The next move lies with the state machinery — to act with speed, fairness, and a resolute will to punish the culprits.
