Madikeri: An unexpected building collapse in Gonikoppa city, Kodagu, on Thursday afternoon left many injured and three individuals trapped under the debris. The incident occurred in an old structure housing the 'New Ambur Hot Dum Biryani' restaurant, operated by Tirumurugan and his family.

Fire and Emergency services responded to the scene, rescuing three individuals from the rubble. Efforts are ongoing to locate and save three more people suspected to be trapped. One person, who sustained serious injuries, has been transported to a hospital in Mysuru for advanced treatment.

The police have arrived at the scene to manage the situation and ensure public safety. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) is actively coordinating the rescue operations to expedite the search and recovery efforts.

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Bengaluru: Kumara Chandrashekharanath Swamiji, head of the Vishva Okkaliga Mahasansthana Mutt, has expressed regret over his controversial statement suggesting that "Muslims should be denied voting rights."

In a press release, Swamiji clarified, "Muslims are also citizens of this country. Like everyone else, they too have voting rights. If my statement yesterday has caused discomfort to our Muslim brothers, I sincerely apologise for it."

He further added, "Okkaligas are inherently tolerant of all religions. We have always treated people of every faith equally. Our Mutt maintains cordial relations with Muslims, and they frequently visit us. Similarly, we attend their weddings and other joyous occasions. Hence, there is no intolerance towards this community." Swamiji appealed to the public to disregard the controversy surrounding his remark.

The controversial statement was made during a farmers' rally, ‘Raita Gharjana,’ organised by the Bharatiya Kisan Sangh, Karnataka Pradesh, at Freedom Park, Bengaluru, on Tuesday. Addressing the gathering, Swamiji had said, "A law should be enacted to deny voting rights to the Muslim community, and the Wakf Board should be abolished."

The remark drew widespread criticism from political leaders and the public alike. Following the backlash, Swamiji issued his apology, stating, "Muslims are also citizens of this country. Like everyone else, they too have voting rights. If my statement yesterday has caused discomfort to our Muslim brothers, I sincerely apologise for it."