The case involving the alleged desecration of Islamic holy texts at a mosque in Santibastwad village has been officially transferred to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) for a more detailed and specialised investigation, Belagavi Police Commissioner Bhushan Gulab Rao Borase confirmed at a press conference on Sunday.
The incident occurred around 10:15 AM on May 12, when unidentified individuals reportedly entered the basement prayer hall of an under-construction mosque in Santibastwad. They allegedly removed four holy books, including two copies of the Quran and a headset, placed them on a nearby plot belonging to a local named Gundoji, and desecrated them by placing slippers on top before setting them on fire. The act caused property damage estimated at ₹5,000 and was seen as an attempt to disturb communal harmony.
A formal complaint was filed the same day at 6:30 PM by Tahsildar Mohammad Nisara Gaussaba. Based on this, a case was registered at Belagavi Rural Police Station under Crime No. 100/2025, invoking multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023 and the Indian Penal Code, including provisions related to inciting religious hatred, criminal trespass, arson, and destruction of sacred property.
Initially, the investigation was handled by teams under the supervision of Commissioner Yada Martin. However, after his transfer, the newly appointed Police Commissioner Borase reviewed the status and ordered the case to be handed over to the CID, citing its sensitive nature and the need for advanced technical and forensic examination.
CID teams, led by DSP Suleman Tahsildar, have since inspected the site and begun further inquiry. The Belagavi Police Commissionerate has assured full cooperation to the CID in the ongoing investigation.
The incident triggered tensions in Santibastwad and parts of Belagavi city. On May 16, members of the Muslim community held a protest at Chennamma Circle, demanding swift action and the arrest of those involved. Authorities have appealed to all communities to remain calm and allow the investigation to proceed unhindered.
