Chikkamagaluru, November 1: The Inam Dattatreya Baba Budan Swami Dargah (Baba Budangiri Inam Datta Peetha) has once again become embroiled in controversy. A video showing a Muslim family consuming non-vegetarian food right next to the prohibited Homa Mantapa has gone viral on social media, triggering intense anger from Hindu organizations.

The district administration had earlier imposed a ban on non-vegetarian food consumption within a 200-meter radius of this disputed site. Despite this, allegations of rule violation have surfaced. The viral visuals have fueled outrage, with demands for strict action against the culprits. Authorities are investigating the matter, and the current situation is reported to be calm.

Previous Controversies:
Debates over whether Baba Budangiri or Shri Guru Dattatreya Peetha belongs to Hindus or Muslims have arisen multiple times. Official government records originally refer to it as Shri Guru Dattatreya Baba Budan Swami Dargah, and the site is also known as Baba Budangiri and Inam Dattatreya Peetha. In 2022, this religious center—once a symbol of Hindu-Muslim unity—witnessed ownership disputes between the two communities. Traditional Thamarai Design Metal Bangles for Women & Girls – Pack of 1

Similarly, in August 2025, allegations emerged that a fake Gauri (shrine) had been constructed at the Datta Peetha. Hindu organizations had petitioned the government to form an SIT and conduct excavations using GPS-based modern technology to uncover the truth.