Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (JD)
Udupi, Mar 23: Chandrakanta Bhat from Indrali Hayagriva Nagar, accused of fatally assaulting a Dalit woman for feeding a stray dog, was arrested by the Manipal police.
The victim, Baby (50), a resident of Kunjibettu Budnar, sustained serious injuries in the attack and is currently receiving medical treatment at Ajjarkad Hospital. Reports indicate that Baby was providing food to stray dogs near her residence when Chandrakanta intervened, verbally abusing her and striking her head with a wooden log.
In response to this heinous act, a case was filed against the accused under IPC 1860 (U/S-504, 506, 323, 324), SC-ST Atrocities Act at the Manipal police station. Following an investigation, the Manipal police apprehended the suspect on March 21 and presented him before the Udupi court, which ordered his judicial custody for 14 days.
The Karnataka Dalit Sangharsh Samiti Udupi District Committee raised concerns that the arrested individual was admitted to Udupi District Hospital under the guise of illness, allegedly under pressure from Udupi MLAs, and transferred there during the night.
Upon learning of this development, the organization's representatives met with district superintendent of police Dr Arun K, urging for stringent action to ensure the accused faces the full extent of the law.
The delegation also insisted that the investigation be expanded to include any overlooked sections in the initial FIR.