Amidst widespread rage over the brutal murder case of Neha in Hubli, Karnataka's Chief Minister has declared that the investigation will now be conducted by the CID, leaving the local police's preliminary probe behind. A special court's establishment also echoes the community's demand for swift justice. The general public is expressing their anger through massive protests, insisting on severe punishment for the accused.
"We've shifted the case to the CID and are in the process of forming a special court," stated the Chief Minister. Assuring the timely submission of the charge sheet by the police, he emphasized that it will facilitate the court's ability to deliver a prompt verdict. While I have not visited the victim's family personally, the district's minister in charge and party workers have, and our Law Minister is due to visit. I plan to visit as well," he added.
The Chief Minister also claimed that crime rates have dropped under the Congress regime, citing a decrease in crime cases from 1295 incidents in 2023 to consistent increases over the four years of the BJP government. Reiterating a stance of zero tolerance for crime, he condemned Neha’s murder and promised consideration of her family's demands.
Following this heinous crime, the state's atmosphere is tense, with politics reaching a fever pitch. Accusations and counterclaims between the ruling Congress and opposition BJP intensify the political strife. The former is attempting to frame the incident as an isolated event, whereas the latter claims it as a case of 'love jihad.' Additionally, several Hindu organizations are participating in the protests.
The Chief Minister denies 'love jihad' allegations
In this context, the Chief Minister has firmly refuted the 'love jihad' angle in the murder of Neha Hiremath, a Congress councilor's daughter in Hubli. He criticized the BJP for their politicization of the tragedy, reaffirming, "This is not a case of love jihad. I condemn the incident. We have arrested the perpetrator, and the investigation is being carried out with seriousness. We will ensure that the toughest punishment will be given to the criminal."
Murder at College: Councilor's Daughter Killed
Neha Hiremath, 23-year-old daughter of Congress councilor Niranjan Hiremath from Hubli-Dharwad was fatally stabbed by her classmate Faiyaz on April 18th within the BVB College premises. Faiyaz was apprehended by the college community while attempting to flee the crime scene. Neha, a first-year MCA student, had been friends and even more with the accused in the past.
Source: aajtak
Accused's Mother Apologizes
Faiyaz's mother, Mumtaz, has apologized on behalf of her son to the people of Karnataka, particularly to the victim's parents. "She was like a daughter to me. I share the family's grief. My son's actions were wrong, and he should be punished. He has shamed us," she expressed.
Mother believed the two loved each other
"Neha was a lovely girl; both she and Faiyaz loved each other," Mumtaz revealed. "I was aware of their relationship for over a year. My son was ready to marry her, but I advised him to focus on his career first. Both were academically bright and I wished for them to prepare for the IAS exams. However, he has brought shame upon us," she lamented.
Also read: Outrage Ensues as Local Voices Demand 'Justice for Love' after Neha's Murder
Source: aajtak
Father's Anguish
Choking back tears, Faiyaz's father confessed, "He spoke of wanting to marry her, but I refused. I beseech the people of Karnataka for forgiveness. My son was wrong. He will be punished by the law, and I support that. He has tarnished not only me but our city too. I ask for forgiveness from Munavalli's people, those who helped raise us. Please, forgive me," he implored.
Neha's Father Asserts She Was Not in a Relationship
Neha's father, Niranjan Hiremath, decried the atrocity committed by Faiyaz, stating that no individual has the right to perpetrate such violence against women. The bereaved family seeks capital punishment for the accused, believing it to be the only resolution that could appease their daughter's spirit. Neha was not involved with Faiyaz; he proposed to her, but upon her refusal, he, in rage, resorted to stabbing her to death.
