Mysore cops see Muthalik role in riots

Agent provocateur held

 Sources told Deccan Herald on Saturday that Krishna (30), a mason by profession, had “confessed” that he and his friend, Raju were involved in descrating the place of worship at Gayathripuram earlier this week. Interestingly, after hours of interrogation by the police, sources claim that Krishna also revealed that he was “inspired” by a speech delivered by Sri Rama Sene chief Pramod Muthalik in Mysore some time ago to carry out his provocative act.

Muthalik had visited Kyathamaranahalli in Udayagiri police station limits, twice in the last few weeks. While he had spoken to the locals after visiting the areas hit by earlier riots in June, he made another visit later to address a rally organised in the locality. However, it is not known when Krishna was ‘inspired’ by Muthalik.

A top police officer, on condition of anonymity, asserted that the police are probing all angles, including the suspect’s claim related to Muthalik.

Krishna reportedly told the police that he and his friend Raju of the same locality had visited Srirangapatna for purchasing the piglet. The duo met a contact there who arranged the purchase.

Krishna had claimed that the animal was required in connection with a “ritual puja” and paid Rs 1,500 for the purpose.

The animal was transported to Mysore by the duo, who severed its head before disposing off the carcass in the premises of the madrasa, it is alleged.

The police had also summoned for questioning the person who sold the piglet and the ‘broker.’

It is learnt that the police have recorded their statements during the course of the interrogation. Meanwhile, the police have launched a manhunt for Raju, who is reported to be absconding.