Udupi MLA Yashpal Suvarna has accused the Congress of turning the police department into its political office. His remarks came after visiting those arrested in connection with the Malpe harbour incident, where a woman was allegedly tied to a tree and assaulted. Speaking at the district jail in Mangaluru, the BJP MLA criticized the handling of the case, stating that fishermen and laborers earn their livelihood through hard work and should not face injustice.
Suvarna asserted that the police action was politically motivated, adding that the BJP will showcase its strength and unity in the coming days. He claimed that a video of the incident was made viral, which led to the arrests under pressure, despite the woman reportedly stating that she had no complaints.
Meanwhile, Malpe police have filed a suo motu case after an audio clip inciting protests went viral on WhatsApp. The voice note in Tulu called for fishermen to take to the streets, referencing the 2014 Gangolli protests. The case has been registered under Sections 57, 189, 192, and 353(1)(b) of the BNS for allegedly inciting violence and public disorder.
Additionally, the Malpe Fishermen’s Association held a protest meeting on March 22 at Malpe Port, where former minister Pramod Madhwaraj and activist Manju Kola allegedly made provocative speeches. The police have registered cases against them, and investigations are ongoing.
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