MLA Harish Poonja booked for allegedly delivering communally provocative speech

Mangalore Today News Network

Beltangady, May 5, 2025: A case has been registered against Beltangady MLA Harish Poonja for allegedly making a defamatory and communally provocative speech targeting the Muslim community during a religious event. The remarks were reportedly made at the Bhramakalashotsava celebration held at the Sri Gopalakrishna Temple in Tekkaru, Bhatrabailu.

The complaint was filed by local Muslim leader S M S Ibrahim Musliyar at the Uppinangady police station.

Following the complaint, police reviewed video footage of the MLA’s speech and formally registered a case against him.