Why is K'taka BJP Opposing the Arrest of VHP Leader?

Synopsis
In a contentious move, the Karnataka BJP has voiced strong objections to the arrest of VHP leader Sharan Pumpwell, warning the Congress government of potential consequences. This situation has ignited protests among Hindu activists, raising questions about the political climate in the state. What are the implications of this conflict?
Key Takeaways
- Karnataka BJP opposes the arrest of Sharan Pumpwell.
- Concerns raised over treatment of Hindu activists.
- Caution issued to the Congress government regarding consequences.
- Protests erupted following Pumpwell's detention.
- Accusations of appeasement politics against the government.
Mangaluru (Karnataka), May 28 (NationPress) The Karnataka BJP has raised objections regarding the detention of Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) leader Sharan Pumpwell, cautioning the Congress-led state government that continued arrests of Hindu activists could lead to serious repercussions.
Sharan Pumpwell was taken into custody on Tuesday, accused of instigating a bandh following the murder of Hindu activist Suhas Shetty in Mangaluru. However, the police subsequently released him after presenting him to a judge, who granted him bail.
Hindu activists voiced their discontent over Pumpwell's arrest, which followed the murder of an individual from a minority community near Bantwal on the same day.
BJP State President B.Y. Vijayendra remarked, 'The actions taken by the Mangaluru police against Vishva Hindu Parishad leader Sharan Pumpwell—allegedly for calling a bandh after the murder of Hindu activist Suhas Shetty—are utterly reprehensible.'
'Since the Congress government assumed power in the state, Hindus have not enjoyed proper protection. Instead, this administration has been intimidating and harassing Hindu activists through police actions. Arresting them on trivial grounds and filing baseless cases seems to be an effort to silence their voices,' Vijayendra claimed.
He further accused the Congress administration of engaging in appeasement politics. 'This government, which consistently provides refuge to anti-national and jihadi elements, is now targeting Hindu activists and leaders. The BJP in Karnataka will not stand for this,' he warned.
'I advise the state government—if such arrests persist, the government itself will bear the consequences,' Vijayendra asserted.
Sharan Pumpwell's arrest was executed by the Kadri police following demands from members of the Muslim community for the arrest of Hindu activists who allegedly made hate speeches after Suhas Shetty's murder.
An FIR had been lodged against Sharan Pumpwell for calling a bandh to protest Suhas Shetty's murder 20 days prior. Hindu activists questioned the timing of this police action, alleging that the arrest was made to appease the Muslim community.
In response to his arrest, hundreds of Hindu activists congregated outside the police station, demanding his immediate release.