Karnataka: After violence in Karnataka’s Shivamogga district over the murder of the BJD activist flared up,the state government today blamed the local administration for the decision to allow his funeral procession amidst tension. So far, twelve people are being questioned in custody and three of them have been arrested over the murder of 26-year-old Harsha, who was stabbed on Sunday night.

Violence and arson broke out when Harsha’s body was being taken for last rites in a procession. Over 5,000 people had joined the 8-km funeral procession.Section 144 was imposed in the district and all educational institutions were shut down. Lathi charge was used after the mob part of the funeral procession turned violent.

Earlier the police had maintained that Harsha was killed over “personal enmity”. Police officer Dr K Thiyagarajan said,” As of now, we strongly believe this has happened with regard to previous enmity. Further investigations are on”. After preliminary investigation, the state government on Monday, ruled out the possibility of connection with the Hijab matter.

Late on Monday night, a group pelted stones at Bismillah hotel of Hyder Ali, who is the father of Hazra Shifa, a student of Government Pre University College for Girls in Udupi.