Daijiworld Media Network - Bengaluru

Bengaluru, Apr 24: Chief Minister Siddaramaiah paid a solemn visit to the Mathikere home of 35-year old Bharat Bhushan—gunned down by terrorists in Pahalgam—on April 24, extending Karnataka’s collective condolences to his grieving family. A bright mind with a promising future, Bhushan’s untimely death struck at the heart of Kannadiga society.

“Such a cowardly, inhuman act cannot go unanswered,” the CM declared, condemning the daylight execution of an innocent father before his loved ones. He praised Labour Minister Santosh Lad and a team of officials for their swift deployment to Kashmir to ensure the safe return of stranded Kannada speakers and the repatriation of Bhushan’s mortal remains. To date, 175 Kannadigas have been brought home unharmed.

Reiterating the government’s mandate to shield its citizens, Siddaramaiah announced a relief package of Rs 10 lac for each family struck by this terror assault. He affirmed Karnataka’s unwavering support for central efforts to root out terrorism nationwide, lamenting an apparent intelligence lapse reminiscent of Pulwama and Balakot tragedies.

In honor of Bharath Bhushan and fellow victim Manjunath Rao, the CM ordered state police honors at their final rites. Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy and Education Minister Madhu Bangarappa have personally met the bereaved families in Bengaluru and Shivamogga, promising ongoing assistance.

Bhushan, who had traveled to Kashmir with his wife, Dr Sujata, and their toddler, was singled out by terrorists after identifying himself as a Hindu. His execution underscores the nefarious cruelty of extremist violence and reaffirms the state’s resolve: no act of terror will go unanswered, and every Kannadiga will be protected.