Karnataka Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao addressed the media regarding the recent communal tensions and back-to-back murders in Dakshina Kannada district, stressing that retaliatory killings are creating a dangerous atmosphere in the region.

Speaking to reporters, Gundu Rao said that Suhas Shetty, who was murdered recently, was a known rowdy-sheeter involved in two murder cases. In what appears to be a retaliatory act, Abdul Rehman was killed in Bantwal, and another individual was injured, he stated.

“If this cycle of revenge continues, it will be difficult for society to survive,” the Minister said. “Police have obtained preliminary leads in the Abdul Rehman murder case and arrests will be made soon,” he added. Rao emphasized that a toxic communal atmosphere has been brewing in the district, and these incidents are the consequence.

Condemning the brutal and inhumane nature of the murders, Gundu Rao said such acts send a dangerous message to society. He assured that the police are on high alert and handling the situation with seriousness.

Taking a jibe at the BJP, Gundu Rao said, “Unlike the BJP, we don’t politicize dead bodies. They and their affiliated Sangh organizations are responsible for creating this environment of hate in Dakshina Kannada.”

He added that all those involved in Suhas Shetty’s murder have been arrested, and similar swift action will follow in the Bantwal case as well. “Murder is a crime regardless of the victim’s religion or caste. Law will take its course. There’s no discrimination in our government,” Rao assured.

He accused the BJP of having a biased mindset against Muslims and said their statements lack logic, justice, and humanity. “They are filled with venom and prejudice,” he remarked.

On the recent bandh call given by Sharan Pumpwell, Rao said it was inappropriate and an example of deliberate provocation. “Under the garb of Hindutva, they try to justify all kinds of wrongdoings, from illegal activities to violence,” he said. “Even sand mafia and rowdies misuse Hindutva as a shield.”

Section 144 has already been imposed in Dakshina Kannada, and further steps are being considered to control the situation, he added.

Rao also revealed that preparations are underway to establish a Special Task Force (STF) in the district to handle communal violence. He emphasized the need for an Anti-Communal Force.

“Police cannot be stationed outside every house. Some leaders recently gave inflammatory speeches — cases have been registered against them as well. The problem will persist as long as these venomous ideologies exist. We must work on changing minds, not just enforcing laws,” he concluded.