Udupi : A BJP worker was allegedly beaten to death by so-called “Gau rakshaks” (cow protectors) belonging to Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal.
The deceased identified as Praveen Poojary, a cattle trader along with his friend Akshay Devadiga was transporting two cows in their tempo on Wednesday night in Udupi district of Karnataka.
Upon receiving the information, the “cow vigilantes” of Bajrang Dal and VHP brutally attacked the two with lethal weapons.
“Nearly 20 BJP and VHP activists gheraoed the vehicle and began attacking the two. One succumbed to his injuries, other is under treatment. Further investigation is on,” the TV channel reported quoting police sources. He said Poojary was attacked around the Hebri limits of Karkala district. Udupi Superintendent of Police KP Balakrishna said 17 people have been arrested in connection with the case, reported India Today.
When Praveen revealed assailants that he was a BJP worker and had campaigned for the saffron party during 2014 Lok Sabha elections, then only they left the spot.
Praveen succumbed to the injuries without responding to any treatment, while his friend Akshay has been admitted to a local hospital. His condition wasn’t immediately clear.
The News18 report says that several groups have called for a massive protest in Mangalore and are demanding strict action against those guilty.