Sacrilege attempt at Patiala's Mata Kali Temple, 1 held

Patiala, January 24

A man was today arrested following an alleged sacrilege attempt at the historic Mata Kali Temple here.

SSP Sandeep Garg said additional police had been deployed at the temple and the suspect was being questioned. In the CCTV footage, which went viral on social media, the masked suspect is seen scaling the enclosure, where the deity’s idol is installed, and attempting desecration. The suspect is immediately pushed away by the priest.

Bid to disturb peace

Some vested interests are trying to destabilise social harmony on the eve of elections, but I will not let them succeed in their malicious motives. Charanjit Singh Channi, Chief Minister

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Kotwali SHO Bikram Singh Brar said the suspect had been identified as Rajdeep Singh and had been booked under Sections 295-A and 354 of the Indian Penal Code.

Deputy Commissioner Sandeep Hans said a meeting had been called with all stakeholders over the issue.

Following the incident, members of the BJP condemned the incident and demanded a high-level investigation. Security has been stepped up in the city.

Patiala MP Preneet Kaur condemned the incident and urged the authorities to take stern action against the culprits. Deliberate attempts were being made to hurt the religious sentiments, she said, while urging for calm.