Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay has condemned the shooting deaths of three Tamilians, who were reportedly suspected poachers, by officials from the Karnataka Forest Department. He described the department’s rationale for the incident as “unacceptable.” This incident has raised significant concerns regarding the treatment of individuals suspected of poaching and the actions taken by forest officials in such situations.
“An honest investigation must be conducted regarding this brutal incident. A high-level investigation committee should be constituted, and appropriate punishment should be meted out to those responsible. The Karnataka government must provide all necessary assistance to the families of the victims. I strongly urge the Karnataka government to take appropriate measures to ensure that no such incident occurs again. The protesters demanded that the forest personnel who opened fire be brought to the spot and questioned. TV visuals showed pushing and jostling between protesters and police amid heavy security arrangements.
“The explanation provided by the Karnataka Forest Department regarding this incident is unacceptable,” he added. Calling for those responsible to be held accountable, Vijay said a high-level investigation should be conducted into the incident and that the families of the victims must receive assistance from the Karnataka government.
Protest Erupts in Hanur Following Deaths of Three Men
Tensions flared in Hanur, located in the Chamarajanagar district, as villagers and relatives of three deceased men gathered for a protest in the Datti forest area. The demonstrators expressed their outrage towards the Forest Department authorities, demanding accountability and answers regarding the circumstances surrounding the men’s deaths.
Calls for Thorough Investigation into Deaths
Vijay has called for a comprehensive and unbiased investigation into the recent deaths, expressing dissatisfaction with the explanation provided by the Karnataka Forest Department. He emphasized the need for clarity in the circumstances surrounding these incidents.
