Daijiworld Media Network – Bengaluru

Bengaluru, Apr 9: Karnataka BJP president B Y Vijayendra on Wednesday accused the state police of harassing Hindu activists under the Congress-led government, citing recent incidents in Bhatkal and Kodagu as examples of alleged abuse of power.

Speaking amid mounting outrage over an alleged assault on a Hindu activist in Bhatkal, Vijayendra said, “Police atrocities targeting pro-Hindu and BJP workers have been repeatedly occurring across the state. False complaints are being filed, and workers are being constantly harassed.”

He condemned the reported assault on Hindu activist and auto driver Srinivas Naik by Karwar District Superintendent of Police (SP) M Narayan at the Sirsi City police station. “This is inhumane, an abuse of power, and clear evidence of police oppression,” he said.

Vijayendra also referred to the recent suicide of BJP worker Vinay Somaiah from Kodagu, who allegedly ended his life citing harassment by Congress leaders. He stated that the Congress MLAs and CM’s legal advisor A S Ponnanna, along with MLA Manthar Gowda, should be named in the FIR.

He criticised the state government for its silence and inaction against SP Narayan. “Despite such serious incidents, the government has not initiated any action against the SP. This silence is highly condemnable,” he added.

In response to the Bhatkal incident, local BJP units, Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), and other Hindu organisations held protests, blocked the highway overnight, and laid siege to the Bhatkal police station, demanding an apology from the SP and justice for Srinivas Naik.

Vijayendra affirmed that the matter will be raised prominently during the ongoing Janakrosh Yatra, a state-wide BJP campaign against the Congress government’s policies.

As political tensions escalate, the issue is likely to spark further debate over law enforcement neutrality and political interference, especially with the Lok Sabha elections approaching.