A disturbing incident in Karnataka's Belagavi district has brought to light an alleged hate crime targeting a Muslim headmaster. On July 14, the drinking water tank of a government primary school in Hulikatti village, Savadatti taluk, was poisoned in what authorities believe was a deliberate attempt to malign the headmaster, Suleman Gorinaik, and force his transfer.

The incident came to light after eleven students who consumed the water after their midday meals complained of a strange smell and fell ill. They were immediately hospitalized, and fortunately, prompt medical intervention ensured that all the children recovered.

Police investigations revealed a conspiracy involving three individuals: Sagar Patil, a local leader affiliated with the right-wing group Sri Ram Sene; Krishna Madar; and Naganagouda Patil. According to the police, Sagar Patil masterminded the plot and enlisted the help of the other two. The accused intended to create an atmosphere of panic and suspicion around Headmaster Suleman Gorinaik, who has served at the school for the past 13 years, with the ultimate goal of getting him transferred.

The investigation revealed that Krishna Madar allegedly coerced a Class 5 student into pouring a mixture of pesticides into the water tank. The student was lured with chocolates, condiments, and ₹500 to carry out the act. The police traced the pesticide to a shop in Munavalli, further solidifying the evidence against the accused.

All three accused have been arrested and booked under Section 328 (causing hurt by means of poison) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and remanded to judicial custody.

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has strongly condemned the incident, calling it a "heinous act driven by religious hatred and fundamentalism" and a grave threat to communal harmony. He expressed shock that such an act could occur in a land known for compassion and questioned what kind of society targets children in the name of religion. Siddaramaiah has called upon leaders of the BJP and right-wing organizations to introspect and reject politics of hatred, questioning if they would take responsibility for such a heinous act. He affirmed the government's commitment to fight hate speech and communal violence and highlighted the establishment of a special task force to monitor and act against such threats.

The incident has sparked outrage among local teachers and residents, who describe Headmaster Suleman Gorinaik as a sincere and respected teacher. The community is shocked that he was targeted because of his religious identity.

This incident is a stark reminder of the dangers of communal hatred and the importance of maintaining social harmony. The swift action by the police in apprehending the accused and the government's condemnation of the act are crucial steps in ensuring that such incidents are not repeated and that the perpetrators are brought to justice.