Mangalore: Janardhan Poojary backs Dr Heggade, questions intention behind allegations
Pics: Dayanand Kukkaje
Daijiworld Media Network – Mangalore (VM)
Mangalore, Oct 17: "As there was no eyewitness to the brutal rape and murder of Sowjanya which took place a year ago, the case can only be fought on circumstantial evidence. Police have already investigated the case and arrested a person. Now after such a long gap, a few people are saying that he is not the accused and allegations are being made against Dharmasthala Dharmadhikari Dr Veerendra Heggade. I do not understand the intention behind this and why they were quiet till now," said former union minister B Janardhan Poojary.
Addressing a press meet here Thursday October 17, Poojary said "Soon after the news of Sowjanya's murder was flashed, I visited the family even though I was busy. The pain the family were going through hurt me badly and I was speechless. I asked the family if they suspected anyone, to which they replied in the negative.
"Now a few people are alleging that Dr Heggade's family was responsible for the murder. My question is why were they quiet till now and what is their intention in doing this?" questioned Poojary.
"The allegations have hurt Dr Heggade. If his family member had committed the crime, why would he call the then home minister R Ashok to undertake detailed investigation and demand for CBI probe in the case? Until a person is proved as accused, it is wrong to make allegations against him. Even Sowjanya might cry in heaven for making allegations against Dr Veerendra Heggade," said Poojary.
He further said, "So far there has been no blot on Dr Heggade's image. Through various social welfare programmes, he has always worked for the people but now some forces are trying to slander his name."
Poojary also urged the chief minister to grant a compensation of Rs 5 lac to the victim's family, apart from demanding CBI investigation and also strict action against those trying to defame Dr Heggade, if their guilt is proved.
"Police will investigate from every angle and no person can escape the law. Until the allegations against Dr Heggade's family are proved, we will continue to respect him. In case people provide evidence or clue in the case and officials do not investigate it, then I will be the first person to fight," he assured.
Former MLA Vijay Kumar Shetty, Suresh Ballal, Harikrishna Bantwal among others were present.
However, when reporters asked Poojary a few questions to further clarify his stand on the matter, his answers wavered.
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