Karnataka: Tensions piled up in Karnataka after a 26year old was murdered for a Facebook post on the Hijab matter last night. The deceased identified as a member of the right-wing outfit Bajrang Dal had been actively campaigning for secular uniforms in schools and colleges. According to police, the 26-year-old Harsha was stabbed to death by an unknown assailant at the Ravi Varma Lane in Bharati Colony.
After the incident, personnel have been deployed in large numbers and public gatherings have been restricted. “Prohibitory orders under Section 144 of CrPC have been clamped in the town and orders have been given to shut the schools and colleges, Deputy Commissioner Selvamani R said.” Supporters of the deceased took to the streets and unleashed their anger. Clippings from the location showed stone-pelting and vehicles set on fire while a plight of police personnel equipped with riot control gears marched in the neighbourhood to prevent flare-up over the attack.
A case has been registered at the Doddapete police station in Shivamogga district. The police claim to have found shreds of evidence as they are close to nabbing the accused. According to them, this incident has no connection with the ongoing pro-hijab controversy in the state. It seems to be the result of an old rivalry, the police added.
The State Home minister convened with the family of the deceased. Interacting with the reporters on his visit to Shivamogga, he said “A youth has been killed. Such incidents should not happen. Police have got the clue and surely, they (the accused) will be arrested soon. I appeal to people to maintain calm.”
The murder came amidst the Hijab and saffron shawl clashes in the state where Muslim girls have been ordered to refrain from wearing hijab to the schools and colleges. The HC has been hearing the case but has not given a permanent verdict on it.