Karnataka witnessed controversies during Eid Milad celebrations in Shivamogga and Vijayapura, with viral videos and audio clips triggering outrage and police action. In Bhadravathi, Shivamogga, a 12-second video allegedly showing a group of youths shouting “Pakistan Zindabad” during an Eid Milad procession went viral on social media. The incident reportedly took place around 8 pm on Monday near Gandhi Circle on Tarikere Road, with the slogans reportedly chanted while participants danced to DJ music.

Responding to the viral clip, Shivamogga Superintendent of Police said, “One video said to be in Bhadravathi yesterday, shouting pro-Pakistan slogans, is becoming viral. We are registering an FIR and identifying the individuals involved. We are verifying where it was shot, when it was shot, who all have shouted, and the genuineness of the video, and then will proceed with the investigation.” The police have assured that a thorough investigation will be conducted once the authenticity of the video is established and the individuals involved are identified.

Meanwhile, in Vijayapura, police have filed cases against three individuals for playing a provocative audio track during Eid Milad celebrations held on September 5. The audio reportedly contained inflammatory content, stating, “15 minute ke liye police ko hatao, batate hai kaun kis mein dum hai, Hindustan bana dikhaiye” (Remove the police for 15 minutes, we’ll show who has the real strength, let them make Hindustan then).

The case names the DJ vehicle owner (A1), DJ operator (A2), and the Instagram ID ‘MT Touseef15s’ as the accused. The FIR was registered by police officer GK Devakar, who also oversees social media monitoring at Gandhi Chowk police station, under whose jurisdiction the case falls. Authorities are currently investigating the authenticity of the audio and identifying all individuals involved to take appropriate legal action.

These incidents raise the growing concern over provocative content during public celebrations, which has the potential to incite communal tensions. Police officials in both districts have emphasised that investigations are ongoing and that strict action will be taken against anyone found to be violating the law.