Kodagu BJP Protests Over Worker’s Death, Demands Arrest of Congress Spokesperson
MADIKERI: Tensions flared in Kodagu’s district headquarters on Friday as BJP workers launched a large-scale protest in Madikeri, seeking the immediate arrest of Congress spokesperson Thennira Mahina. The agitation followed the suicide of BJP worker Vinay Somaiah, who allegedly held Mahina and two Congress MLAs responsible in a note he left behind.
Vinay, a WhatsApp group admin, had been booked by the Kodagu police after a member of his group reportedly shared a defamatory comment against Virajpet MLA AS Ponanna. The complaint was filed by Mahina. BJP leaders argue Vinay was wrongfully targeted and harassed, despite the post being made by another user.
“Instead of focusing on resolving public grievances—like the complaint about unhygienic toilets in Napoklu—the authorities slapped cases on three innocent group members, including Vinay, without serving any prior notice,” said former MLA KG Bopaiah, calling the incident a clear misuse of power.
Protesters alleged that Vinay faced persistent threats and pressure from Congress affiliates, pushing him towards suicide. They demanded that a murder case be filed against Mahina and called for the resignation of the implicated MLAs.
The protest led to severe traffic disruptions, with BJP workers blocking key roads and chanting slogans against the Congress party and local police. SP K Ramarajan arrived after an hour and assured protestors that the matter is being examined in Bengaluru, with full cooperation from the Kodagu police.
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