Vijayapura, Karnataka — A group of youths in Almel town attempted to gherao the car of MLA Basanagouda Patil Yatnal on Sunday, condemning his recent controversial statement promising ₹5 lakh to Hindu men who marry Muslim women.
According to police, Yatnal was travelling with his security convoy when several protesters blocked his vehicle and tried to surround it. Officers quickly intervened and detained the youths to prevent escalation.
The protest comes days after Yatnal’s remarks — made in the wake of the August 3 killing of a Hindu youth in Koppal.
His comments have sparked strong criticism from political leaders, community organisations, and civil society activists, who accuse him of inflaming communal tensions.
Police confirmed that the detained protesters were later released, and security for the MLA has been tightened.
