Police resorted to lathicharge to disperse pro-Maharashtra supporters which hurled stones a them during a protest here in connection with removal of a controversial signboard at Yellur in the district.
Belgaum Deputy Commissioner N Jayaram told reporters that the re-erected 'Maharashtra Rajya' plaque was removed by the district administration.
A crowd assembled at the place from where the signboard was removed and started pelting stones at police. As the crowd turned violent and continued pelting stones, police resorted to lathicharge, they said.
Some police personnel were injured in the incident and have been admitted to the district hospital. The situation is under control now, they added.
Prohibitory order under section 144 of the IPC has been promulgated in Belgaum, Khanapur Taluka and Nippani town till July 29, he said.
Pro-Maharashtra supporters and outfits had yesterday re-erected a controversial signboard at Yellur after the previous one was razed to the ground by Public Works Department on Friday. The PWD had taken action following a High Court direction.
The action of pro-Maharashtra groups evoked condemnation and protests by some Kannada outfit in Bangalore.
Speaking to reporters at Tumkur, State Law and Parliamentary Affairs T B Jayachandra said "Strict legal action will be taken against those involved in th incident....No one should try to hurt sentiments of Kannada people.
