Karnataka CM Slams BJP For Politicising Worker's Suicide, Vijayendra Claims FIR Omits Cong MLAs' Names
The alleged suicide of a BJP worker in Karnataka has escalated into a political confrontation on Saturday. While the BJP demands swift action and naming Congress leaders in connection with the case in the FIR, the ruling Congress government accused the opposition of politicising a tragic incident.
Vinay Somaiah, a BJP functionary from Madikeri, reportedly took his own life at his office in Bengaluru on Friday. In a note allegedly left behind, Somaiah cited harassment by Congress leaders and named MLAs AS Ponnanna, Manthar Gowda, and party leader Thennira Maheena as responsible for the distress leading to his death, as per a report on IANS.
However, BJP leaders have expressed outrage alleging that the FIR, filed at the Hennur police station, reportedly included only Thennira Maheena’s name.
'Our Patience Has Limits': Vijayendra
Karnataka BJP President BY Vijayendra launched a scathing attack on the state government, warning Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Home Minister G. Parameshwara of growing unrest among party workers.
“Our patience has limits. This is a warning to the Chief Minister and the Home Minister. There is a limit to everything. They are taking away the rights of BJP workers. This cannot be allowed in the state. I told the SP that if this is not done, we will not be responsible for the consequences," he said, as per the report.
He added that he had urged the Superintendent of Police to take action against the “irresponsible” officers and approach the Magistrate’s Court to ensure the other names are included.
'Law Will Take Its Course': Karnataka CM
In response, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah dismissed the BJP’s protest as political opportunism. "The police have registered an FIR and are investigating the case. The probe into the BJP worker's death is underway. I won't speak much about the case. Once the investigation is complete, action will be taken against those found guilty," he said, addressing reporters at Vidhana Soudha, as per IANS.
Deputy CM DK Shivakumar echoed this sentiment, "This is a major political conspiracy." Home Minister Parameshwara emphasised that the law would apply equally to all, including the Congress MLAs mentioned.
He said, as per ANI, "The law is the same for everyone. It is the same for AS Ponnanna and Mantar Gowda. The police department will take whatever action is required by law. The incident took place in February. The department has investigated. Let's see what information we get. The police department will check everything and take action."
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