Tensions Ignite in Mangaluru After Suhas Shetty’s Killing

Communal unease intensified in Mangaluru following the gruesome slaying of Suhas Shetty, a former Bajrang Dal activist and key defendant in the 2022 murder of Mohammed Fazil. The attack occurred on May 1, when unidentified assailants ambushed Shetty’s vehicle near Kinnipadavu and brutally assaulted him with lethal weapons. Though taken to AJ Hospital, he was declared dead on arrival.

Shetty, aged 42, had a history of criminal involvement with five FIRs filed across Mangaluru and Dakshina Kannada. His association with right-wing Hindu groups made him a divisive public figure. The Fazil murder, in which he was implicated, followed the killing of BJP leader Praveen Nettaru and had inflamed religious sentiments.

Following his death, the police enforced strict restrictions under Section 163 of the BNS, prohibiting gatherings and inflammatory activities until May 6. Public transport halted after mobs vandalized buses in areas like Surathkal and Ullal. Sale of alcohol was suspended in sensitive zones to deter escalation.

The Vishwa Hindu Parishad and affiliated groups called for a shutdown, which saw widespread compliance. BJP state chief BY Vijayendra visited Shetty’s family, offered ₹25 lakh in aid, and blamed the government for failing to curb extremist forces, demanding a neutral probe by the NIA.

While investigations progress, officials appeal for peace amid rising fears of further communal clashes. The situation remains tense as Karnataka’s coastal belt grapples with the aftermath.

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