A clash between Hindu and Muslim students in a college in southern India’s Karnataka left two injured, prompting police intervention and the cancellation of a scheduled college fest.

The incident took place at Guru Nanak Dev Engineering College in Bidar District on May 29.

Visuals showed during the fest at the college campus, a violent clash broke out between Hindu and Muslim students. The students were seen fighting each other, exchanging blows amidst a chaotic scene. On the other floors of the college building, other students gathered, watching the altercation unfold with a mix of concern and astonishment. The campus was thrown into a state of turmoil, with the atmosphere charged and tense, as the disturbance caused significant commotion and disruption throughout the college.

According to reports the altercation began when a student DJ aired the song “Bharat ka baccha baccha Jai Sri Ram bolega,” sparking objections from Muslim students. The verbal argument escalated into a physical confrontation, resulting in injuries to students Nataraj and Veerendra, who sustained nose and head injuries, respectively.

Superintendent of Police Channabasavanna S L stated that the situation was quickly brought under control by police who rushed to the scene. Security has since been increased around the college. SP Channabasavanna urged students and the public to ignore any rumors and remain calm.

Following the incident, the college’s governing body decided to cancel the techno-cultural fest scheduled for May 30 and 31. Complaints have been filed by both Hindu and Muslim students, with the Gandhi Gunj police station handling the case based on Nataraj’s complaint. An FIR has been lodged against the 17 Muslim students implicated in the clash.

The altercation underscores the tension between the communities and highlights the need for measures to prevent such incidents in the future, ensuring a safe and inclusive environment for all students.