In a show of solidarity with a shopkeeper embroiled in a controversy over playing religious songs during Azaan, Bharatiya Janata Party leaders Tejasvi Surya and Shobha Karandlaje were detained by the Bengaluru police on Tuesday. The incident, which unfolded in Srirampura, saw the MPs join a protest in support of Mukesh, the shop owner at the center of the dispute.
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Mukesh, who hails from Srirampura in Bengaluru, alleged that he was assaulted for playing religious hymns near Siddanna Layout during the Azaan call to prayer. The clash ignited tensions in the area, prompting Tejasvi Surya and Shobha Karandlaje to demand justice for the shopkeeper.
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The shopkeeper, identified as Mukesh, stated, “If something serious had occurred during the altercation on Sunday, who would be held accountable? It’s heartening to see the support from the community rallying behind me during this challenging time.”
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Tejasvi Surya took a firm stance, insisting that all accused individuals must be arrested promptly. He issued a warning, stating that a bandh in Nagarathpete would be organized if the arrests were not made by the given deadline. The BJP MP further called upon the Bengaluru City Commissioner to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident.
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Responding to the situation, Gopal Singh, the father of the assaulted shopkeeper, emphasized the need for justice and urged the police to take strict action in the case. Singh’s plea echoes the sentiments of the community, as pressure mounts on the Halasuru Gate Police to deliver justice swiftly.
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The altercation led to the involvement of several individuals, culminating in the detainment of Tejasvi Surya, Shobha Karandlaje, and other BJP workers during a protest held in Nagarathpet. The incident has sparked debates between political parties, with differing narratives emerging on the underlying reason for the dispute.
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Bengaluru City Commissioner, the Halasuru Gate Police, and other authorities have assured a comprehensive investigation into the matter. As tensions simmer in the locality, the focus remains on upholding the law and ensuring justice prevails for all parties involved.
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