Chikkamagaluru, Dec 6 (NationPress) Karnataka Police have arrested five Hindu activists connected to the murder of a Congress leader, an incident that allegedly stemmed from the removal of a Datta Jayanti banner in Chikkamagaluru district on Saturday.

In response to this tragic event, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah declared that his administration would pursue the perpetrators and any individuals behind this heinous act. He ensured that the harshest penalties would be enforced.

Ganesh Gowda, a 40-year-old Congress leader, was brutally attacked with a machete late Friday night following a dispute regarding the removal of a Datta Jayanti banner at Sakharayapatna in Kadur taluk of Chikkamagaluru district. Gowda was a representative on the Sakharayapatna Gram Panchayat.

The police have taken five individuals into custody, including Sanjay, Bhushan, and Mithun, for questioning. An FIR has been lodged against six suspected Bajrang Dal members. The FIR identifies Sanjay, Nithin, Nagabhushan, Darshan, Ajay, and others as suspects, according to police records.

Authorities indicated that all accused individuals are associated with Bajrang Dal. Accused Sanjay suffered a serious head injury during the confrontation and is currently receiving treatment at the District Hospital in Chikkamagaluru.

Initial investigations reveal that Gowda was driving on a narrow road near Kalmardi Mutt when a group of assailants on motorcycles confronted him and attacked him with a machete. After the assault, the attackers discarded the weapon on-site and fled.

Chikkamagaluru MLA K. S. Anand mentioned that the conflict arose due to the banner's removal; subsequently, Ganesh was lured away and killed.

“It is believed that eight individuals participated in this incident. Tensions had been escalating between the two factions for several days. Had the police taken timely action, this tragedy might have been avoided,” he asserted.

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah voiced his strong condemnation of the murder of Congress worker Ganesh Gowda from Sakharayapatna in Kadur taluk of Chikkamagaluru district on Saturday evening. He expressed profound sorrow at his passing, akin to that of Gowda's family. He prayed for the repose of the deceased's soul.

“Our government will pursue justice for his murder by tracking down the killers and their accomplices, ensuring they face the maximum legal consequences,” he affirmed.

He added, “Every individual who resorts to violence against those who seek peace and unity will be dealt with severely through legal channels. Our party and government stand resolutely with the family of the late Ganesh.”

Home Minister G. Parameshwara confirmed that local police are actively investigating the murder of the Congress leader in Chikkamagaluru district.

“The motive behind this killing will be clarified once the investigation report is presented. Appropriate actions will follow,” he stated.

As a precaution, police presence has been increased in Sakharayapatna post-incident. Chikkamagaluru SP Vikram Amte noted that four specialized teams have been established to locate the accused. He mentioned that two individuals involved in the altercation have already been hospitalized.

The murder of Ganesh Gowda has heightened tensions in the region. District police have implemented strict security measures to maintain order and reassure the community. Additional police forces have been deployed on main roads and in busy areas.