What happened in the Soujanya murder case? K'taka BJP delegation visits family, says party stands with them
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Synopsis
In a powerful demonstration of support, the BJP delegation led by B.Y. Vijayendra visited the grieving family of Soujanya, a victim of a brutal crime. The party pledged assistance as the family continues to seek justice for their daughter, who was tragically murdered in 2012. Activists are demanding action against those involved.
Key Takeaways
- BJP delegation visited Soujanya's family to express support.
- Activists are demanding justice for the victim.
- The case involves allegations against temple authorities.
- Legal battles continue with the CBI appealing the acquittal of the accused.
- Public protests are ongoing in coastal Karnataka.
Mangaluru (Karnataka), Sep 1 (NationPress) In a significant turn of events, a BJP delegation led by State President B.Y. Vijayendra visited the residence of the late Soujanya in Dharmasthala, extending their support to her family, who are mourning the tragic loss of their daughter, a victim of gang rape and murder.
The family, along with activists, has been vocally asserting that 17-year-old Soujanya was kidnapped, gang raped, and brutally murdered.
The delegation included MP and BJP state secretary Captain Brijesh Chowta, state general secretary J. Preetham Gowda, BJP Yuva Morcha general secretary and MLA Harish Poonja, MLAs Gururaj Gantihole and Cement Manjunath, state secretaries Tammesha Gowda and Sharnu Tallikeri, BJP Mangaluru district president Satish Kumpal, and BJP state media co-convener Prashanth Kedangi, who all visited Soujanya's home.
This visit holds importance as Soujanya's family alleges the involvement of temple authorities in their daughter's tragic demise. Activists have been campaigning for over a decade, demanding justice.
After the visit, Vijayendra told reporters that if Soujanya's family files a special leave petition with the Supreme Court, the BJP would cover all related expenses.
He mentioned that they had met with Soujanya's mother and other family members on Monday. Earlier that day, MLAs, the district president, and the MP had a conversation with the family, with the visit aimed at demonstrating solidarity following the "Dharmasthala Chalo" rally.
Vijayendra stressed, "We are fully with Soujanya's family. Her mother is still struggling with the grief of losing her daughter."
Soujanya's case, involving her gang rape and murder, was reported on October 10, 2012, in Pangala, near the famous Hindu pilgrimage site of Dharmasthala in Mangaluru district. Soujanya was a 12th-grade student at Sri Dharmasthala Manjunatha College.
On her way home from class, she was allegedly abducted, and her body was later discovered in a nude state. The local Belthangady police initially investigated the case, which was then transferred to the CBI. One Santosh Rao was arrested in connection with the incident.
However, on July 16, 2023, the CBI Special Court acquitted Santosh Rao, criticizing the investigation and prosecution for wrongfully implicating him. The court recommended action against police officers and others for mishandling the investigation.
The CBI subsequently filed an appeal with the Karnataka High Court challenging the acquittal, asserting that Santosh Rao is indeed the true perpetrator and that they would present evidence to substantiate the charges against him.
The case has taken on a political dimension, with activists alleging that a powerful religious family in the region and a prominent BJP politician are shielding the actual culprits. Massive demonstrations and events are being organized in coastal Karnataka by activists demanding a thorough reinvestigation and the arrest of the true offenders.
Moreover, activists are leading a campaign regarding the alleged murders tied to temple authorities in Dharmasthala. The Congress-led government has excluded Soujanya's case from the purview of the Special Investigation Team (SIT), which is investigating a separate mass grave case.
Point of View
It is imperative to remain unbiased while reporting on sensitive cases like the Soujanya murder. The ongoing quest for justice reflects the struggles faced by victims' families in the legal system, and it is crucial to uphold the principles of fairness and integrity in our coverage.
NationPress
01/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the significance of the BJP delegation's visit?
The visit by the BJP delegation was significant as it demonstrated political support for Soujanya's family and highlighted ongoing calls for justice in a case that has garnered public attention.
What are the allegations against temple authorities?
Soujanya's family has alleged that temple authorities were involved in her tragic death, leading to a lengthy campaign by activists demanding accountability.
What is the current status of the case?
The case remains contentious, with the CBI having filed an appeal against the acquittal of the accused, indicating ongoing legal battles and public protests for justice.
When did the Soujanya murder occur?
The murder of Soujanya occurred on October 10, 2012, when she was abducted while returning home from school.
What steps are being taken for justice?
Activists are organizing rallies and demanding a reinvestigation, while the BJP has pledged support for the family in their pursuit of justice through legal channels.
