Daijiworld Media Network - Bantwal 

Bantwal, Mar 31: Outrage has erupted within the Dalit community of Manila Muru, following an alleged sexual assault on a minor girl by Mahesh Bhat, a local landlord in Vittal’s Muru area.

The accused, who employed the victim’s father as a daily wage laborer, is accused of committing the heinous crime within his plantation.

Despite a case being registered at the Vittal police station over a week ago, the police have yet to arrest Mahesh Bhat, sparking allegations that authorities are shielding him.

Reports suggest that the influential landlord has gone into hiding and is attempting to secure bail with the help of local police, raising concerns that efforts are being made to suppress the case.

Community leaders have emphasized that the accused must not be allowed to escape justice. They are demanding his immediate arrest and a thorough scientific investigation into the case. Furthermore, they insist that stringent legal action be taken under appropriate sections of the law.

A public meeting, convened by the Dalit Rights Committee near Muru Government School on March 30, resolved to intensify protests if justice is delayed. As part of their continued fight for justice, a protest demonstration has been scheduled in front of the Vittal Taluk Office on April 3.

The meeting saw participation from key leaders, including Dalit Rights Committee state leader Eshwari Padmunja, DYFI district secretary Santosh Bajal, Farmers’ Association district president K Yadav Shetty, DHS district leader Krishnappa Konaje, along with activists like Krishna Tanneerubavi, Radhakrishna Bondantila, Suneetha, and local leaders Pushparaj, Vinay, and Suresh.