Mangaluru: The Communist Party of India (Marxist) has strongly criticised the Congress-led Karnataka government for its inability to contain rising communal tensions in Dakshina Kannada. Addressing a protest at Clock Tower, CPM state secretary Dr Prakash accused the administration of failing public expectations.
Dr Prakash called for a fresh investigation into the Kudupu mob killing case and financial support for the victim’s family. He further demanded an inquiry into the role of former police commissioner Anupam Agrawal, who, he alleged, tried to suppress the case.
Highlighting the worsening communal atmosphere, Dr Prakash urged the government to establish a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to examine cases of communal murders driven by hate and revenge in the last ten years. He also called for a judicial probe into such incidents dating back 30 years.
He blamed the government for ignoring repeated CPM appeals for strict action against hate groups, resulting in recurring cycles of violence. The speaker of the legislative assembly, U T Khader, was also held partially accountable for the deteriorating law and order.
On the creation of a Special Task Force, he insisted it should act decisively to dismantle communal networks. “Hindutva is not Hinduism,” he said, branding it a political agenda aimed at marginalising minorities.
CPM district secretary Muneer Katipalla echoed the concerns, alleging that over 30 communal murders occurred in the past three decades, with many accused walking free due to political backing. He demanded a judicial investigation led by a sitting judge.
Several state and local CPM leaders participated in the protest.