BJP MP seeks central agency investigation, warning of potential involvement of radical groups; Karnataka govt confirms eight arrests and plans anti-communal task force.
Bengaluru (Karnataka), May 4:
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Tejasvi Surya has written to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, demanding that the National Investigation Agency (NIA) take over the probe into the murder of Suhas Shetty, citing growing suspicion of the involvement of extremist groups.
In his letter, Surya highlighted the need for a central agency inquiry, suggesting parallels with past killings allegedly linked to the now-banned Popular Front of India (PFI).
“In the past, the NIA had successfully uncovered PFI’s role in such targeted killings. There is growing suspicion that similar forces might be involved in this case too. I strongly urge the Ministry of Home Affairs to transfer the investigation to the NIA. This will ensure a fair, transparent and thorough probe, and help bring those responsible to justice,” Surya wrote.
State Govt Responds: 8 Arrests, Anti-Communal Task Force Planned
Meanwhile, Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara addressed a press conference confirming that eight individuals have been arrested in connection with the murder. He stated that the state is forming an anti-communal task force to prevent future incidents that may incite tensions.
“The murder had the potential to spark communal unrest, especially in sensitive regions like Dakshina Kannada and Udupi. However, the police acted swiftly to maintain peace and order,” Parameshwara said.
The minister emphasized that Dakshina Kannada and Udupi have long been flashpoints for communal issues, drawing state and national attention due to past violence.
Background: Who Was Suhas Shetty?
Suhas Shetty was the main accused in the Fazil murder case and was reportedly killed by a group of unidentified assailants at around 8:30 PM on Thursday in Mangaluru, according to the city’s Police Commissioner.
The motive behind the killing is still under investigation. However, the political demand for a central probe suggests a potentially deeper and more organized nexus.