Bengaluru: Union Minister Shobha Karandlaje has urged the National Investigation Agency (NIA) to take over the investigation of the recent riots in Nagamangala, Mandya district. In a statement posted on X, Karandlaje raised concerns about the involvement of activists from the banned Popular Front of India (PFI) in the violence, which saw attacks on a Ganesh procession and the destruction of around 25 shops.
Karandlaje pointed out reports of unfamiliar faces in the area and suggested that anti-social elements from Kerala might be involved. She criticised the Karnataka government for its perceived failure to maintain order during the unrest.
“This is not merely a local issue; it poses a threat to national security,” Karandlaje asserted. “The banned PFI is attempting to incite unrest. I will confront the FIR lodged against me and continue to advocate for justice and accountability.”
Authorities are currently evaluating the implications of the riots and considering the call for a national-level investigation.