A man was fatally assaulted in Mangaluru, Karnataka, on April 27, after allegedly chanting pro-Pakistan slogans during a community cricket match near Bhatra Kallurti Temple in Kudupu. The unidentified individual’s body was found later, sparking a major police inquiry. Fifteen people have been detained so far, with more under scrutiny.
Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara confirmed the violent mob attack was under active investigation. “The victim’s identity remains uncertain; we don’t yet know if he was a local or an outsider,” he stated. Preliminary findings suggest the individual shouted “Pakistan Zindabad,” sparking outrage among the crowd.
The minister condemned the act, emphasizing that no provocation justifies mob justice. “Even if offensive remarks were made, only legal action is appropriate,” he added, calling for calm and communal harmony.
The incident unfolded during a cricket event with over 100 participants. Witnesses reported a heated exchange between the victim and a local, Sachin, which escalated into a violent group assault. Although some tried to intervene, many continued attacking the man using sticks and kicks.
Police were alerted around 5:30 pm when the body was found. Initial assessments suggested no severe external injuries, but a post-mortem confirmed death from internal trauma and shock. Injuries across the man’s limbs and torso pointed to sustained physical abuse.
Sachin and 14 others — mostly from Kudupu and neighboring localities — have been arrested. The case, registered under Section 103(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, could result in life imprisonment or capital punishment. Investigations continue, with more arrests expected.
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