Mangalore: Sowjanya case - Let struggle for justice reach every village - Kemar Swamiji

Sunil Haleangady
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangalore

Mangalore, Nov 1: "The actual culprits in the Sowjanya rape and murder case are living a carefree life without any legal action being taken against them. We must keep up our struggle till the case is taken up by the CBI. The state government must hand over the case to the CBI immediately. Let this movement for justice reach every village and every nook and corner, only then will Sowjanya's soul rest in peace," said Sri Esha Vittal Swamji of Kemar Sandipani Sadhanashrama.

He was addressing a massive protest held at Kinnigoli here on Thursday October 31, demanding justice for Sowjanya, the young girl who was found raped and murdered near Dharmasthala last year.

He further said, "It is heartening to see that youngsters are creating awareness about the struggle for justice in the case on the internet. Vasanth Bangera and Shakuntala Shetty are the only two MLAs who have spoken about the issue. Why are the other people's representives silent?

"This is a struggle against religious partisanship and injustice. We will not rest until justice prevails. Let the government awake before our 'shanti mantra' turns into a full-fledged revolt," he declared.

Vishnu Murthy of Nagarika Seva Trust said, "The root cause for all the crimes in Dharmasthala is that unlawful activities take place with the knowledge and support of police. Instead of taking steps to prevent crimes like rape and illegal activities, there have been efforts to repress those who are fighting against these crimes. Are there different laws for the rich and for the poor?" he questioned.

Sowjanya's mother Kusumavati expressed her pain and agony over the loss of her daughter.

Jossy Pinto delivered the introductory address. Diwakar Karkera compered the programme while Janardhan Kilenjur proposed the vote of thanks.

Prior to the protest, owners of shops and businesses closed their shutters for an hour in support of the protest.

A minute's silence was observed at the beginning of the programme to pray for the repose of Sowjanya's soul.

A thousand postcards addressed to the chief minister urging for CBI probe were prepared and submitted on the occasion.

Hundreds of people participated in the protest. Tight security was deployed by the Mulky police.