News and pics: Yahya Hallare
Daijiworld Media Network – Bhatkal(EP)

Bhatkal, Aug 9: Auto rickshaw drivers' association members alleged that one of their colleagues was arrested on suspicions of his involvement in throwing meat inside the Kogthi serpent deity temple in the taluk. They also alleged that he was harassed during questioning. The members gheraod the police station on Monday evening August 8 and protested.

The rickshaw drivers alleged that the police had taken away rickshaw driver Udaya Gonda, a Marukeri resident three days ago and forced him to admit that he alone threw the meat in the temple. “They had also assaulted him as they liked,” they said. The protesters became all the more angry when SI Revathi denied the allegation. Later the police dispersed the protesters and held discussions inside the police station with the office bearers of the association. SI Revathi clarified that they are not investigating the incident as a separate team is formed for it.

The protesting rickshaw drivers' association leaders reacting to this, urged that the names of the police officers investigating the case be disclosed within the next three days. “The affected rickshaw driver should be provided justice failing which protests will be held,” they warned.

Rikshaw drivers and owners' association's Venkatesh Naika, Nayeem, Suresh Naika, Manju Naika, Masthappa and others were present.

Who had bought meat?
Police sources have disclosed that a suspect has admitted having bought meat at Bhatkal meat shop the previous day of Kogthi incident. The meat shopkeeper has also identified the suspect. However it is still not known to whom he handed over the meat. It is suspected that the true suspect is trying to change the direction of the investigations through Udaya. It is said that the suspect will be arrested within a few days.