“Puttur MLA sent Bajrang Dal workers to kill me”: Congress worker Hakeem Kurnadka alleges

“Puttur MLA sent Bajrang Dal workers to kill me”: Congress worker Hakeem Kurnadka alleges

Mangalore Today News Network

Puttur, Sep 3, 2026: Congress worker Hakeem Kurnadka has alleged that Puttur MLA Ashok Rai has sent Bajrang Dal workers to target him and claimed that an attempt was made to attack him during a press conference in Puttur.

Speaking at a press conference, Hakeem alleged that Ashok Rai frequently associates with Bajrang Dal workers and maintains close ties with BJP leaders, while loyal Congress workers are being sidelined.

“Puttur MLA Ashok Rai moves around with Bajrang Dal workers and has connections with BJP leaders. Loyal Congress workers have no value. Now, Bajrang Dal workers have been sent to kill me. If Ashok Rai contests the next election, I will contest against him. No one can intimidate me or silence my voice,” Hakeem said.

He clarified that he does not seek personal confrontation with anyone but would not hesitate to raise his voice against injustice. “It is the responsibility of an elected representative to answer questions raised by the people. Threatening those who ask questions is not the way of democracy,” he said.

Hakeem alleged that on September 1, 2026, while he was conducting a press conference at the Puttur Press Bhavan, supporters of MLA Ashok Rai attempted to assault him. He said journalists present at the venue intervened and brought the situation under control.

He further alleged that even after the press conference, the MLA arrived along with his supporters, creating a situation that could have led to a confrontation. Describing the matter as serious, Hakeem urged the police to conduct an impartial and comprehensive investigation without coming under any political pressure.

“I am not making these allegations out of personal enmity. As an ordinary citizen, I have every right to question and seek justice regarding the alleged attack and threats against me. The truth must be established through an investigation, and whoever is responsible must face legal action,” he said.

Hakeem also said that Ashok Rai is an elected representative and therefore carries greater responsibility than an ordinary politician. He stressed that elected representatives must ensure that no situation arises that could lead to conflict and affect law and order or public peace.

Political differences are a natural part of democracy, he said, but responding to differences through attacks, threats or confrontation is unacceptable. “It is the responsibility of elected representatives to respond democratically to questions raised by the public and political opponents,” Hakeem said.

He also reaffirmed his association with the Congress party, saying it was not a means to gain power but a political belief he has followed for years.

“My relationship with the Congress party is not something that started yesterday. I have worked for the party using my own earnings while engaging in social service and working among the people. I remain committed to the same principles. Congress yesterday, Congress tomorrow,” he said.

Hakeem said he would not change his political position based on who is in power. “I am an ordinary Congress worker. If the MLA cannot answer my questions, people should see how he will respond to even more serious questions that may be raised by the Opposition tomorrow. Threats cannot silence my voice. I do not seek personal confrontation with anyone, but I will not step back from raising my voice on behalf of the people and against injustice,” he said.