Youth clash during Vinayaka idol immersion in Mettur

More than 100 youth belonging to two groups clashed near the Cauvery bridge in Mettur on Wednesday (September 16, 2026) when they had come to immerse Vinayaka idols in the river.

Vinayaka idols from various parts of the district have been brought to Mettur in vehicles for immersion over the past three days as part of the Vinayaka Chaturthi celebrations. According to the police, some youth travelling in a lorry allegedly threw flowers at women travelling in another lorry near the Cauvery bridge and picked a quarrel with them. When youth from the other group questioned them, an argument broke out between the two groups.

As the argument escalated, more than 100 youth from both groups allegedly attacked each other. More than five youth sustained injuries in the clash. Traffic was affected on the stretch and motorists passing through the area were reportedly alarmed. Police personnel who reached the spot held talks with members of both groups and pacified them before dispersing them from the area.

Meanwhile, Vinayaka idols installed at various places across Salem city were taken out in procession in vehicles and immersed in Mookaneri amid tight security. Cranes were used to lift the larger idols from the vehicles which were immersed in the water. The immersion processions were conducted under police protection to ensure the smooth movement of vehicles and prevent untoward incidents.