Mangaluru: Tensions run high after man's murder, prohibitory orders imposed

The murder of a 35-year-old pickup truck driver in Kolthamajalu near Bantwal has sparked outrage and tensions in several parts of the Dakshina Kannada district.

The incident has triggered sharp communal reactions, prompting authorities to impose prohibitory orders in multiple taluks to maintain peace.

Also read: ‘Kannada born out of Tamil’: Kamal Haasan sparks row with remark; 'apologise', says BJP

District authorities have enforced Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarika Suraksha Samhita, effectively banning large gatherings in the taluks of Bantwal, Puttur, Belthangady, Sullia, and Kadaba until 6 PM on May 30.

A separate prohibitory order has also been issued for Mangaluru taluk, which falls under the jurisdiction of Mangaluru City Commissionerate .

Victim hacked to death

Abdul Rahim, also known as Imtiyaz, was allegedly hacked to death on Tuesday (May 27) by a group of assailants while he was unloading sand from a pick-up vehicle at a site near Ira Kodi.

His friend who was near him, also sustained injuries in the sword attack and is undergoing treatment at a hospital, police said.

Also read: Karnataka govt promulgates ordinance for gig workers' security

On Tuesday (May 27) evening, a large crowd gathered near Highland Hospital in Mangaluru before Raheem’s body was shifted to Yenepoya Hospital for autopsy.

Premeditated murder

Addressing the media outside Yenepoya Hospital on Tuesday, SDPI district president Anwar Sadath claimed, “Raheem was a hardworking youth, not affiliated to any political organisation, and was lured to the site under the pretext of work and then killed by a gang affiliated to right-wing groups.”

Sadath also cited earlier threats posted on social media following the murder of Hindu activist Suhas Shetty earlier this month. Community leaders have alleged that Raheem’s murder was premeditated and incited by hate speech.

Also read: Mangaluru: 8 held for murder of Hindu activist, says Minister Parameshwara

“Despite 45 FIRs filed against those who made open threats against Muslims, very few arrests have been made,” he said, demanding the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the killing and apprehend all those involved.

Revenge for Suhas Shetty?

Imtiyaz's death has sparked widespread outrage, particularly on social media, where many have alleged that the killing was a retaliatory act for the murder of Hindu activist Suhas Shetty.

Shetty, 42, was a controversial figure in coastal Karnataka, with five criminal cases registered against him. He was well known for his association with Hindutva organisations such as Bajrang Dal.

Also read: ‘HAL Karnataka’s pride, won’t go anywhere’: Shivakumar on Naidu’s ‘proposal’

His murder had already stirred political and communal tensions in the region, and Imtiyaz’s killing has further fuelled speculation that it was an act of revenge.

Authorities on high alert

In light of the rising violence, the Karnataka government has said it is considering the formation of a dedicated anti-communal force. State Home Minister Dr G Parameshwara said the force would be modelled on the existing Anti-Naxal Force to specifically address criminal and communal incidents in coastal districts

As calls for justice intensify on both sides, officials remain on high alert. District authorities have urged citizens to maintain peace while investigation is underway.

Also read: Suhas Shetty murder: CM denies knowledge of 'link' with Fazil compensation

Heavy police deployment continues in sensitive areas across Dakshina Kannada, with checkpoints set up to monitor the movement of the people and prevent the spread of rumours.