Bhatkal: Revenue officials, in the presence of police, closed a disputed access route to a madrasa in Shirali here and erected a fence and warning board following objections over the alleged use of a portion of government land.

The madrasa, located at Gudihittal in Shirali village and adjacent to a public road, had been provided access by opening a gate in its compound wall and using a small portion of government land along the roadside. Local residents objected to the use of the land, contending that it was unauthorised and could increase vehicular movement on a narrow road near a bend, posing a safety risk to schoolchildren and other road users.

The objectors also said the madrasa had traditionally been accessed through a route passing through the nearby mosque premises and demanded that the alleged encroachment be removed.

The madrasa management, however, maintained that the madrasa was situated on its own land and directly abutted the public road. It acknowledged that permission had not been obtained from the Revenue Department to use the small portion of government land, but alleged that the institution was being singled out on communal grounds. The management also questioned whether similar action would be taken wherever government land was allegedly being used to provide access to private properties or other institutions.

Uttara Kannada Superintendent of Police Deepan M.N. travelled from Karwar to inspect the spot and reviewed the situation. He warned that strict action would be taken against anyone attempting to take the law into their own hands. Bhatkal ASP Ranu Gupta and other police officials were also present.

Later, Revenue officials removed the disputed access and erected a fence at the site, besides installing a warning board against encroachment on government land. The action was carried out under police supervision, with Revenue Inspector Srinivas present.

Police are monitoring the situation to maintain law and order in the area.