Karnataka: Brutal murder of Congress corporator's daughter sparks political controversy
The murder of Neha Hiremath, the 23-year-old daughter of a Congress corporator, has ignited a political feud between the Congress and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Karnataka. Neha was reportedly stabbed seven times by her former classmate, Fayaz Khondunaik, after she rejected his advances. The issue has escalated into a political battle between the two parties. While the Congress attempted to portray it as a personal affair, the BJP claimed it demonstrates the breakdown of law and order in Karnataka.
'Love Jihad' allegations and political accusations
Union minister and Dharwad Lok Sabha BJP candidate Pralhad Joshi suggested a 'love jihad' angle to the incident. He accused the Congress government of failing to maintain law and order, urging Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to stop favoring a "particular community." The issue has been further inflamed after Neha's father, Niranjan Hiremath, also labeled the crime a 'Love Jihad' case. However, Home Minister G Parameshwara denied any 'love jihad' involvement at this stage.
Political backlash and protests following the murder
Union Minister Meenakshi Lekhi also criticized the Congress government, stating that the party's name stands for "corruption, criminality, and communal violence." The Congress responded by asserting that Karnataka has excellent law and order and accused the BJP of trying to impose governor's rule. The murder has also sparked protests from right-wing activists demanding severe punishment for Khondunaik. Groups such as the Hindu Jagran forum, Sri Ram Sena, and Vishwa Hindu Parishad workers staged demonstrations, demanding accountability for the crime
Government's response to allegations and protests
According to the FIR, the accused constantly asked Neha to marry him and had even approached her parents for permission. The complaint filed by Geetha, Neha's mother, also states that Neha's father spoke with accused Fayaz four months ago, telling him not to approach his daughter for marriage because she wants to study. It also revealed that Neha recently informed her parents that Fayaz had threatened her with serious consequences if she did not accept his proposal.
Neha was allegedly stabbed to death by Fayaz
Neha was allegedly stabbed to death by Fayaz on Thursday inside the BVB College campus in Hubballi. She was a first-year master of computer applications (MCA) student at the college. Authorities said Fayaz went inside the college premises with a knife and stabbed Neha five to six times. "During interrogation, he (Fayaz) claimed that the two of them had been in a relationship and that she had suddenly started avoiding him," a senior police officer said.
