Six minors were apprehended by the police after a video showing them allegedly riding two-wheelers while waving the Palestinian flag surfaced on social media, authorities confirmed on Monday. The incident took place on Sunday at approximately 1 pm on Dantaramakki Road in Chikkamagaluru town, Karnataka.Viral video sparks actionThe boys were taken into custody after a video of them chanting pro-Palestine slogans, including #FreePalestine, while riding through parts of the town, went viral on various social media platforms. The video quickly drew attention, prompting swift action from law enforcement.In response, a case was registered based on the circulating footage. Police also seized the two motorbikes used during the incident. According to officials, the group of six minors was involved in riding two separate bikes. On one of the two-wheelers, a 17-year-old boy sitting as a pillion rider was seen waving a Palestinian flag, while their friends followed closely on another bike, participating in the slogan chanting.Six minor boys were detained by the police for carrying the Palestinian flag while riding on two bikes in #Karnatakas #Chikkamagaluru on Sunday.The police said they were taken into custody after a video showing the boys shouting #FreePalestine while moving through parts of… pic.twitter.com/kj4TTb3tl8— Hate Detector 🔍 (@HateDetectors) September 16, 2024Protests by Bajrang Dal and BJP membersThe videos circulation led to protests staged near the local police station by members of the Bajrang Dal and BJP. Demonstrators called for strict action against those involved, arguing that such acts could potentially disrupt communal harmony.“We have detained all six boys involved in the incident, and they are all minors. A case has been registered under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including sections pertaining to disturbing communal harmony. Both vehicles, along with the flag, have been confiscated,” said a senior police officer.Boys inspired by social media contentDuring their interrogation, the minors reportedly told the police that they had been inspired by videos they had seen of a procession in Uttar Pradesh, where individuals were carrying Palestinian flags. They said they were attempting to recreate a similar video for Instagram.Meanwhile, former BJP national General Secretary and MLC CT Ravi made allegations that more than 20 two-wheelers and a four-wheeler were part of an unauthorized rally in the town, during which Palestinian flags were displayed. He further alleged that influential figures tried to intervene on behalf of those involved and that a crowd of over 200 people gathered outside the police station in protest.“I have urged the police to conduct a detailed investigation and dismantle the network behind this incident. It must not be taken lightly,” CT Ravi said, emphasizing the need for serious action.
