Daijiworld Media Network – Kadaba
Kadaba, Dec 4: Residents of Bilinele, Kadaba taluk, staged a protest on Tuesday by placing the body of Sandeep, a resident of Munglimajalu, in front of the Bilinele Gram Panchayat office, demanding a comprehensive investigation into his murder.
Protesters alleged that it was unlikely for the accused, Prateek, to have committed the murder alone and disposed of the body in a dense forest without assistance. They demanded the arrest of other individuals potentially involved in the crime. They also criticized gram panchayat members for their alleged lack of cooperation and inaction throughout the investigation.
Protesters expressed suspicion over the conduct of Kadaba police, accusing them of succumbing to pressure and projecting Prateek as the sole perpetrator. The family and villagers alleged that the police initially hesitated to register a missing person complaint and failed to take timely action to locate the body. It was only after sustained protests that the authorities acted, raising questions about delays and attempts to shield other suspects.
Family members of Sandeep criticized the panchayat president, Sharada, and members for not addressing the case and showing no support even after several protests, including laying siege to the police station. Protesters eventually submitted a formal memorandum demanding justice.
The accused, Prateek, a resident of Nettanada Chendehithlu in Bilinele, was presented in court on Tuesday. He has been remanded to police custody for further investigation.