12 booked for riot, murder attempt in Kolhapur city

KOLHAPUR: The Kolhapur police have booked 12 people for alleged attempt to murder and riot on Monday evening following a clash over putting up a digital board.
The Lakshtirth locality of Kolhapur city witnessed tense atmosphere on Monday after two groups clashed with each other, resulting in stone pelting and a riot-like situation. The police maintained presence in the locality even on Tuesday in view of the tense situation.
According to the police, one person had asked two others to put up a digital board to convey birthday wishes. The two, however, declined to do so stating that the locals would not allow it.
Angered by the refusal, the man and his supporters beat up the duo, one of whom was critical and undergoing treatment in a hospital. His condition had stabalised by Tuesday evening.
The close relatives of both the victims then pelted stones in the Lakshtirth area. Some time later, the supporters of the man wanting the digital board hit the streets with sharp weapons and sticks. Both groups clashed, resulting in minor injuries to a few.
The police have registered the case against the man and his supporters. The police said that they were still looking for the man, while a few of his supporters had been detained by Tuesday evening.