Karnataka: Stone quarry owner opens fire at protesting villagers, one injured

A 38-year-old farmer was allegedly shot at by a stone quarry owner when a group of villagers protested against the construction of a road for quarry stone transportation in Manchehalli village on Wednesday.

According to the police, a heated argument ensued between the villagers and Saklesh S., owner of the quarry, on Wednesday after the latter, along with his supporters, came with the machinery for the construction of the road. The road was being constructed for trucks carrying quarry stones. The argument grew into stone pelting and Saklesh allegedly sustained injury during this. Enraged, Saklesh allegedly pulled out a licensed trigger and fired a few rounds into the air and one at the protesting farmers.

Ravikumar, a 38-year-old farmer, allegedly sustained injuries to his leg and collapsed. Saklesh allegedly escaped and got himself admitted to the hospital.

the farmers of Manchehalli and environment protection committee opposed the construction of the road for trucks to transport quarry stones alleging that it will lead to water and air pollution and also affect the fodder and crop due to the dust.

The Chickaballapur rural police later arrested Saklesh, and the weapon was seized. He was charged with attempt to murder, unlawful assembly, rioting, voluntarily causing hurt, and under the Arms Act, Superintendent of Police Kushal Chowksey said.

Police personnel have been deployed to ensure law and order in the village, the officials added.

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