Karnataka govt announces Rs 25 lakh compensation to kin of slain Bajrang Dal activist

Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Minister K S Eshwarappa said on Thursday that the state government has announced a compensation of Rs 25 lakh to the family of slain Bajrang Dal worker Harsha.

Speaking to media persons, here on Thursday, he said, former chief minister B S Yediyurappa would meet the family on March 6 and present the cheque to family members of Harsha. Also, those who lost their properties in the violence that erupted during the funeral procession of Harsha will be given compensation.

Through an online campaign, more than Rs 60 lakh has been collected in the account of Harsha's mother.

Harsha, the Hindu activist, was murdered in Shivamogga leading to widespread violence in the district. The government has said that it was more than a murder and the miscreants wanted to give a 'message with the murder'. CM Bommai said that the probe agencies will go to the roots and find out the "invisible" hands behind the murder.

Also Read — Three-year-old enmity behind Bajrang Dal worker's murder: Police

The police have arrested 10 persons so far. The Shivamogga city was placed under curfew for seven days and returned to normalcy from Monday (February 28).

The Hindu activists in Karnataka have launched a movement on social media demanding a ticket for one of the family members of Harsha from the ruling BJP to contest the Assembly elections. Srirama Sena Founder Pramod Muthalik has issued a strong statement that the BJP party should not corner Hindutva activists with whose backing they come to power.

The campaign is growing stronger by the day and the ruling BJP is miffed about the turn of events. Hindu activists have slammed the ruling BJP government for reaping political gains and doing little for the grassroots workers who pay with their lives fighting for Hindutva principles. The seat is presently represented by Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Minister K S Eshwarappa.

The minister has said that he is ready to give away his constituency to a family member of Harsha, if the party decides.

(With IANS inputs)

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