Tension in Karnataka’s Shivamogga after killing of Bajrang Dal activist; schools, colleges shut

The local administration in Karnataka’s Shivamogga clamped prohibitory orders and announced a holiday for schools and colleges as a precautionary measure.

Highlights

• A 26-year-old Bajrang Dal activist Harsha was allegedly murdered in Karnataka’s Shivamogga

• Security has been tightened in the city following the activist’s death

• Several vehicles were burnt in the Seegehatti area in Shivamogga city

A Bajrang Dal activist was allegedly murdered on Sunday in Karnataka’s Shivamogga following which security was tightened in the city. According to police, the incident took place around 9 pm. The deceased has been identified as Harsh (26).

Police said several vehicles were burnt in the Seegehatti area in Shivamogga city, adding that a fire brigade team has reached the spot to douse the fire. The killing took place at the Ravi Varma lane in Bharathi Colony, according to police. The reason behind the killing is not immediately known.

Deputy Commissioner Selvamani R told reporters that prohibitory orders under section 144 of the CrPC have been clamped in the town and orders have been given to shut all the schools and colleges.

Karnataka | A 26-year-old Bajrang Dal activist Harsha was allegedly murdered yesterday at around 9 pm in Shivamogga. Security heightened in the city.

— ANI (@ANI) February 20, 2022

Home Minister Araga Jnanendra said that the youth was murdered by four-five men, adding that police have got the clue and surely the accused will be arrested soon.

“A group of four-five youth murdered him. I don’t know of any organization being behind this murder. Law and order under control in Shivamogga. As a precautionary measure, schools and colleges in city limits have been closed for two days,” the Minister said. “I appeal to people to maintain calm,” he added.

State’s Minister KS Eswarappa met the family members of Harsha and assured them that strict action will be taken.

“I am m very disturbed by the murder of a Bajrang Dal activist. He was killed by ‘Musalmaan goondas’ (Muslim goons). I’m going to Shivamogga now to analyse the situation. We will not allow goondaism,” he told ANI .

Superintendent of Police B M Lakshmi Prasad told reporters that a taskforce has been formed to track down the criminals behind the incident. “Our priority is to find them out and get them punished. We request people to cooperate with us and not to act emotionally,” Prasad said.

News ANI