The Maruti car used by the accused was registered in the name of Vijay Kumar, a resident of Kurubarahalli. Police said Kumar sold it to someone through a broker last week.
Investigations reveal that Nataraj, whose father owned a shop in Malleswaram market, is likely to have been involved in hafta collection in the market leading to a rivalry and the murder. A rowdy-sheeter from Srirampura is believed to be the key accused in Nataraj’s murder.
“The rowdy is likely to have given supari to a few men from Tamil Nadu, who are grave diggers in a cemetery in the City,” informed a police officer. According to police, this was the second time that Nataraj was attacked by the group of men, the previous one being at Malleswaram 3rd cross, a few years ago.
Final rites
Nataraj was cremated at Harishchandra Ghat in the presence of his family, supporters and Congress leaders.
Speaking to reporters at the crematorium, Sundaram, Nataraj’s father, said: “The government should ensure that, henceforth, public representatives are given adequate security”.
Congress General Secretary B K Hariprasad, who was present at the cremation, blamed the BJP government for its inaction to safeguard the lives of public representatives.
“The Home Ministry has failed to maintain law and order in the City. Bangalore under BJP rule has become the murder city of the country,” he said.