Belagavi: A mediation attempt to resolve a domestic dispute turned violent in Benakanahalli village of Belagavi taluk late Monday night, February 16, after villagers reportedly thrashed the group that arrived to settle the matter.

The conflict originated from a trivial dispute between a husband and wife, which soon escalated between their two families. To resolve the tension through a local 'panchayat' (settlement meeting), the husband’s side had brought along several young men from Mutyayanatti. However, the presence of outsiders angered the Benakanahalli locals, who then attacked and chased the mediators away.

Following the brawl, the police took three individuals into custody. Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Narayan Bharamani visited the spot late at night to assess the situation and ensure order was maintained.

A case has been officially registered at the Belagavi Rural Police Station, and further investigations are underway to identify others involved in the assault.