Chikkaballapur (Karnataka) [India], March 30: Several residents of Bettenahalli village in Karnataka’s Chikkaballapur district reportedly fell ill after consuming prasadam distributed during Ram Navami celebrations, officials said on Sunday. The exact cause of the illness and the number of those affected have not yet been confirmed, and further details are awaited.
In a separate incident, communal tensions flared in Murshidabad on March 27 during a Ram Navami procession. Clashes broke out at three locations between two groups, escalating into violence that included vandalism of shops, looting, and arson. Several people were injured in the unrest.
Security forces, including central personnel and local police, were deployed to bring the situation under control. Authorities imposed Section 144 across the town, restricting the assembly of four or more people. Officials said efforts are underway to identify those responsible using CCTV footage, and strict action has been promised.
Ram Navami marks the conclusion of the nine-day Ram Navratri festival, which is observed with prayers and rituals across India.
Meanwhile, in Ayodhya, thousands of devotees gathered to celebrate the occasion with great enthusiasm. Pilgrims took holy dips and visited major temples, including the Ram Temple Ayodhya, to offer prayers. The city witnessed a surge in footfall and heightened security arrangements as authorities ensured smooth conduct of the celebrations.
