Mandya: Mandya district police have stepped up security arrangements ahead of Ganesha festival, with a special focus on preventing a repeat of incidents reported during immersion processions in the past few years.Addressing a public meeting in Maddur on Monday, superintendent of police VG Shobha Rani warned that strict action would be taken against anyone attempting to disrupt the peace or indulge in stone-pelting and other unlawful activities during the festival. Police recalled the clashes reported during the Ganesha idol immersion procession in Maddur last year and the violence in Nagamangala in 2024, when miscreants allegedly pelted stones at the idol. The incidents had led to tension in a few places.The SP said police personnel were maintaining a close watch on individuals considered potential troublemakers. She noted that people from neighbouring districts had allegedly been involved in some of the previous incidents and urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with the police. Organisers and the public have been advised to strictly follow the designated routes for Ganesha processions and ensure that the celebrations are conducted peacefully.Police also decided to conduct another round of peace meetings with community leaders and organisers as part of efforts to maintain communal harmony and prevent any untoward incidents during the festival.
