Tension flares near INS Kadamba naval base due to sailors, civilians clash

Pune: Tension reportedly flared near the Mudga Civilian Gate at the INS Kadamba naval base in Karwar on Sunday evening following an accident involving two naval personnel and a local resident.

The incident occurred when two sailors on a two-wheeler collided with a 50-year-old civilian near the base. Both parties sustained minor injuries, and the sailors promptly extended assistance, ensuring the injured man was escorted to a private nursing home in Karwar, where he received medical care.

However, the situation escalated after a group of civilians gathered at the scene. Despite the sailors’ efforts to de-escalate the tension, a minor altercation occurred. The sailors eventually left the area, but the group allegedly pursued them, demanding additional compensation of Rs 50,000.

One of the sailors was reportedly coerced into a four-wheeler and taken toward Amdalli. He managed to share his live location with colleagues, who intercepted the vehicle and rescued him. The group fled, abandoning the vehicle, which was later reported to the local police by the naval authorities.

The following morning, a protest erupted as residents from Amdalli Village blocked the gate of the Naval Civilian Housing Colony (NCHC) in Amdalli, demanding action. The demonstration prompted senior naval personnel, along with the local Tehsildar and the Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP), to intervene. The situation was brought under control by 12:45 pm after discussions with the protestors, navy communique confirmed on Wednesday.

Meanwhile, the Indian Navy has filed a formal complaint with the Karwar Police against the actions of the miscreants, and the matter is under investigation. Naval authorities have assured their full cooperation with law enforcement.