Bantwal: A large protest was held at Farangipete junction by residents and various organizations, condemning the police’s lack of progress in the disappearance of PUC student Dighant, son of Padmanabha Madivala of Kidebettu near Farangipete.
Despite five days having passed since Dighant’s disappearance on February 25th, neither the police department nor the government has made any headway. Protesters expressed deep concern and demanded immediate action.
Mangalore MP Captain Brijesh Chowta, who participated in the protest, stated that the incident was not isolated and that he had previously discussed the issue with senior police officials. He emphasized that stricter action against drug trafficking and ganja use could prevent such incidents.
MLA Bharat Shetty criticized the police’s inaction, alleging that numerous women had complained about safety concerns but received no response. He warned that if the police failed to address the issue of missing Hindu youth, citizens would be forced to take matters into their own hands.
MLC Kishore Kumar accused the police of negligence, stating that a delay in their response had hindered the investigation. He also alleged that the law and order situation in the state had deteriorated, with rampant ganja mafia activity.
BJP District President Satish Kumpala demanded immediate action from the police and threatened a larger protest if the case was not solved within two days. He also accused the Congress government of failing to provide security to Hindu leaders and BJP members.
Belthangady MLA Harish Poonja urged the police to find Dighant and warned against provoking Hindu organizations. He promised to raise the issue in the legislative assembly.
Police Assure Thorough Investigation
Superintendent of Police Yatish N. assured protesters that the police were conducting a thorough investigation. He admitted that the case should not have reached the stage of protest but emphasized the complexity of the investigation and requested public cooperation.
Suspicion of Unidentified Car
Concerns have arisen about an unidentified Qualis car seen near the Anjaneya Temple around the time of Dighant’s disappearance. CCTV footage has raised suspicions of the involvement of drug users in the case.