What is the Situation Following the Murder of Hindu Activist Suhas Shetty?
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Synopsis
Tensions escalate in Mangaluru after Hindu groups declared a bandh protesting the murder of Suhas Shetty, a former Bajrang Dal member. With police enforcing prohibitory orders and security arrangements made for final rites, the community grapples with fear and unrest. Political leaders weigh in, highlighting the need for law and order in the region.
Key Takeaways
- Mangaluru is witnessing heightened tensions following the murder of a Hindu activist.
- A bandh organized by Hindu groups has led to widespread closures and unrest.
- The police are actively investigating the case and gathering leads on the suspects.
- Political leaders are calling for stricter law enforcement measures.
- Community safety and maintaining peace are paramount in the wake of these events.
Mangaluru (Karnataka), May 2 (NationPress) Tension persists in the coastal city of Mangaluru as a result of the bandh organized by Hindu groups on Friday, protesting the murder of Suhas Shetty (42), a former member of the Bajrang Dal.
Due to the escalating situation, the police have enforced prohibitory orders in this communally-sensitive area.
ADGP (Law and Order) R. Hitendra informed the media that Suhas Shetty's family has notified the police about the final rites, which will take place in Bantwal, and security measures have been implemented accordingly.
The police have compiled information and leads regarding the suspects, and arrests are expected soon.
“We urge the public to uphold law and order in the area. Given the historical context of Mangaluru, these events are not entirely surprising. However, strict actions will be taken against anyone found culpable,” he stated.
The Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) has announced a bandh until 6 pm as a condemnation of Suhas Shetty's killing.
VHP activists are also requesting police authorization to carry Suhas Shetty's body in a procession from Karinja near Bantwal to his residence in the Pulimajalu area.
The bandh is being observed throughout Mangaluru district, with shops and businesses remaining closed.
Private buses, the primary mode of transport in the district, have ceased operations following reports of stone-pelting earlier today. Nevertheless, RTC buses are still running.
BJP state President and MLA, B.Y. Vijayendra, is visiting Mangaluru to pay his respects to Suhas Shetty. An official statement from his office claimed that Suhas Shetty was brutally murdered.
In response to the Mangaluru incident, Karnataka Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao, also the district in-charge minister, is set to meet Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to discuss these recent alarming events.
According to a statement from Minister Rao’s office, “Following the two murder cases in Mangaluru recently, the Minister intends to discuss with the Chief Minister the police actions and the necessity of maintaining strict law and order.”
In light of these developments, the Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Assembly, R. Ashoka, remarked on Friday, “Under Congress governance, Karnataka is no safe haven for Hindus. Much like in Kashmir and Murshidabad in West Bengal, Hindus are being targeted and murdered in daylight.”
“Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, who advocates for peace in Pakistan, turns a blind eye to the killing of Hindus in Karnataka. The vicious murder of Suhas Shetty in Mangaluru highlights the deteriorating law and order under the Congress government’s appeasement tactics,” he asserted.
Sharan Pumpwell, a senior VHP figure, alleged that Suhas Shetty was ambushed and killed by individuals from a banned Muslim organization while he was traveling in his vehicle.
“This was a premeditated murder with direct involvement from the banned Islamic terrorist group PFI. The VHP and other Hindu organizations vehemently condemn this act,” he stated.
“This bandh has been initiated by Hindu groups led by the VHP. I call on the public to observe a complete bandh in protest against this murder of a Hindu activist. I also implore the police to apprehend the culprits swiftly,” he added.
Point of View
It's imperative to recognize the delicate balance of law and order in regions marked by communal tensions. The murder of Suhas Shetty has sparked widespread unrest, highlighting the urgent need for effective policing and community engagement to ensure safety and harmony among diverse groups.
NationPress
16/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What triggered the bandh in Mangaluru?
The bandh was triggered by the murder of Suhas Shetty, a former Bajrang Dal worker, prompting Hindu organizations to protest.
What actions have the police taken in response to the unrest?
The police have imposed prohibitory orders and made security arrangements for the final rites of Suhas Shetty.
Who is leading the calls for justice in this case?
The Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) has been vocal in demanding justice and has organized the bandh.
What are the implications of this incident for communal relations in Mangaluru?
This incident has raised concerns about communal tensions and the need for law enforcement to maintain peace in the region.
How have political leaders reacted to the murder of Suhas Shetty?
Political leaders, including the Leader of the Opposition, have condemned the murder and criticized the ruling government’s handling of law and order.
