Karnataka BJP MLA Munirathna Arrested Over Threats, Caste Slurs

Karnataka BJP MLA Munirathna was arrested in Kolar on Saturday, following accusations of issuing death threats and using casteist slurs against contractor Chelvaraju. Munirathna, who represents Rajarajeshwari Nagar in Bengaluru, was named in two separate FIRs filed by the contractor.

In the first FIR, Chelvaraju claimed that Munirathna threatened to kill him. The FIR lists four individuals as accused, including Munirathna, his aide VG Kumar, security official Abhishek, and Vasanth Kumar. In the second FIR, Munirathna was charged with hurling casteist abuses at the contractor.

Chelvaraju had earlier released an audio clip during a press conference, alleging that Munirathna had harassed him over a bribe demand. Both FIRs were lodged under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS).

Meanwhile, the Dalit Sangharsha Samiti (DSS) strongly condemned the use of casteist language and announced plans to stage a protest outside Munirathna’s residence in Bengaluru. Police have heightened security around his residence, erected barricades, and restricted nearby roads.

Congress Slams Munirathna:

Former Congress MP DK Suresh criticized Munirathna for using “low-level language” and urged the BJP to expel him from the party, accusing him of insulting the Dalit community. “He used such derogatory language. He has insulted the Dalits. The BJP should answer for this,” Suresh stated.

In the released audio clip, Munirathna can allegedly be heard discussing money and threatening the contractor. Suresh further demanded the BJP take immediate action and offer an apology.

Aakhir Tak Editor-in-Chief

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