The city police on Sunday arrested six youths on the charge of attacking a Bajrang Dal activist during the Ganesha immersion procession on Saturday night.

According to police, a group of youth objected to the procession while it was passing through Seegehatti in the city. Soon another group opposed them and a verbal duel ensued between the two groups. Stones were thrown on the procession and Uday Rao, a Bajrang Dal activist was assaulted with clubs. He was shifted to McGann Hospital.

Superintendent of Police Abhinav Ashok Khare rushed to the spot and brought the situation under control. Cases have been registered against 20 youth in connection with the incident.

Reacting to the incident, Leader of the Opposition in Legislative Council K S Eshwarappa said that police protection should be provided to Hindu youths.

Sources said that Intelligence Bureau has recommended the state government to deploy paramilitary sources in Shivamogga.

6 held for attack on Bajrang Dal activist in Shivamogga