BJP MLA Bhagirathi Murulya calls for Speaker U.T. Khader’s inclusion in Suhas Shetty Murder Probe

BJP MLA Bhagirathi Murulya calls for Speaker U.T. Khader’s inclusion in Suhas Shetty Murder Probe

Mangalore Today News Network

Sullia, May 4, 2025: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA Bhagirathi Murulya on Sunday demanded that the investigation into the murder of Suhas Shetty include questioning of Karnataka Legislative Assembly Speaker U.T. Khader. She alleged that the Speaker had shown bias by siding with the accused in the case.

Addressing the media, Ms. Murulya criticized Mr. Khader for claiming that the family of Mohammed Fazil—whose 2022 murder case lists Suhas Shetty as the prime accused—had sought his support to prove their innocence. She alleged that such statements by the Speaker could influence the ongoing investigation. “As the Speaker, he should maintain impartiality. However, his actions suggest a partisan approach,” she said.

Defending Suhas Shetty, Ms. Murulya rejected his characterization as a “rowdy sheeter,” describing him instead as a staunch Hindutva activist dedicated to protecting his religion and its followers. Drawing comparisons, she questioned why political figures like Home Minister G. Parameshwara and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, who face various criminal cases, are not labeled similarly.

The BJP MLA also expressed displeasure over Mr. Parameshwara’s recent visit to Mangaluru, where he held discussions with Muslim leaders without involving local elected representatives. “The Home Minister should have engaged with representatives from the region to understand the situation better. The government should focus on promoting love and peace, but their actions indicate otherwise,” she said.

Ms. Murulya urged the state government to adopt proactive measures to curb hate crimes and maintain communal harmony in Dakshina Kannada, a region she said has suffered reputational damage due to such incidents.

The press briefing was attended by Dakshina Kannada District BJP Mahila Morcha President Manjula Anil Kumar, Secretary Sandhya Venkatesh, and other party leaders.

U.T. Khader Clarifies Statement on Mohammed Fazil’s Family
Legislative Assembly Speaker and Mangaluru MLA U.T. Khader clarified that he did not state to media outlets that the family members of Mohammed Fazil were innocent in the murder Suhas Shetty. Addressing the media, Mr. Khader said his remarks were misinterpreted. He explained that his statement referred solely to a call he received from Fazil’s family members and did not involve any assertion regarding their innocence or involvement in the incident.