CM Siddaramaiah denies knowledge of ’link’ between Fazil compensation and Suhas Shetty Murder

CM Siddaramaiah denies knowledge of ’link’ between Fazil compensation and Suhas Shetty Murder

Mangalore Today News Network

Haveri, May 4, 2025: Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Sunday stated he was unaware of reports alleging that a portion of the government compensation given to the family of murder victim Mohammed Fazil was misused to fund the contract killing of Hindutva activist Suhas Shetty.

Speaking to reporters in Haveri, the Chief Minister responded to questions regarding an ongoing police investigation, which reportedly revealed that ₹5 lakh out of the ₹25 lakh compensation provided to Fazil’s family in 2022 may have been used to hire contract killers. "I have to look into it. I don’t have any information. Yesterday, Dinesh Gundu Rao and Home Minister (G Parameshwara) had been there. I haven’t spoken to them yet. I will say after talking to them," Siddaramaiah said.

The shocking development comes after Suhas Shetty was hacked to death on Friday. Police have since arrested eight individuals in connection with the murder, including Fazil’s brother. Fazil himself was murdered in Surathkal in 2022 by a gang of masked men. Suhas Shetty, a history-sheeter, was reportedly the prime accused in that case.

When asked about the possibility of forming a special task force to address communal tensions and violence, Siddaramaiah said that Home Minister Parameshwara had suggested the establishment of a dedicated police wing to identify and control anti-social elements. “I will speak to the Home Minister about it (task force) and then I will let you know,” he added.

The alleged misuse of government compensation has sparked concern, with political observers calling for a thorough investigation into the matter.