NIA Takes Over Probe into Ex-Bajrang Dal Leader’s Murder in Karnataka

The Centre has transferred the murder case of ex-Bajrang Dal member Suhas Shetty in Karnataka to the NIA, citing links to banned group PFI and national security concerns. Twelve people have been arrested so far. The move follows BJP pressure and unrest in the region after the targeted killing.

The Union Ministry of Home Affairs has officially handed over the investigation into the murder of former Bajrang Dal member Suhas Shetty to the National Investigation Agency (NIA), citing concerns over national security and potential links to a broader conspiracy. The move comes after sustained political pressure and rising communal tensions in Karnataka following the incident.

Suhas Shetty, 30, was killed on May 1 near Kinnikambla in Mangaluru’s Bajpe area. According to police reports, Shetty was travelling with five associates when their vehicle was stopped by a group of assailants. He was dragged out and brutally hacked to death in public view, an act that immediately triggered unrest and the imposition of prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita.

The murder has so far resulted in the arrest of twelve individuals. Preliminary findings and intelligence inputs suggested involvement of members of the banned organisation Popular Front of India (PFI), prompting the Centre to invoke sections of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UA(P)A), 1967, in the probe.

The Home Ministry’s June 7 notification stated that the murder was a targeted act designed to incite fear, confirming that it qualifies as a scheduled offence under the NIA Act, 2008. Sections cited include 10, 13, 15, 17, 18, and 20 of the UA(P)A.

The opposition BJP in Karnataka had earlier accused the Congress-led state government of inaction and demanded an NIA inquiry. BJP MLA Captain Brijesh Chowta questioned the delay in transferring the case to the central agency. In response, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah stated on Sunday that legal opinion was being sought by senior police officials regarding the NIA’s jurisdiction.

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The case is now officially under NIA investigation, with the agency expected to uncover further details regarding motive, planning, and organisational involvement.