Belthangady: Former Congress MLA Vasanth Bangera has made a statement amidst protests demanding a fresh investigation into the decade-old Sowjanya murder case in Belthangady.

Addressing the crowd at the "Sangathi Mahasangama Atida Onji Dina" program on Sunday, Bangera claimed to possess information pertaining to the CBI investigation into the case.

He expressed his belief that justice could be achieved for Sowjanya through the CBI investigation, but he asserted that the truth was manipulated during the investigation. While he refrained from revealing the details at present, Bangera stated that he would expose those who manipulated the investigation when the appropriate time comes. He emphasized that he was willing to reveal everything, even if it cost him his life, and expressed his confidence that the truth would come out before his life ends.

Bangera revealed his intention to personally meet with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to discuss all the relevant matters. He aims to inform the Chief Minister about the issues and urge for a thorough investigation by the authorities, including Siddaramaiah himself, to ensure that the truth is revealed.

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The former MLA emphasized his commitment to the Sowjanya case, stating that he has been vocal about the flaws in the murder case from the beginning. Despite facing immense pressure not to raise the issue, Bangera pressed for a CBI investigation and discussed the matter extensively in the legislative assembly. He had previously engaged in a detailed conversation with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, providing information about the Sowjanya case and other related incidents, which led to the case being handed over to the CBI.

However, Bangera expressed disappointment that even the CBI investigation did not unveil the truth, thus calling for a fresh investigation. He had met with the Chief Minister and Sowjanya's family to request a new investigation, and he has faith that the government will order one.

Bangera stressed the importance of holding criminals accountable, regardless of their influence or power, and called on society to unite in raising its voice for justice.

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Shivamogga: Residents of Sulebailu in Urugadur, on the outskirts of Shivamogga city, staged a candlelight protest on Wednesday night condemning the murder of student Sanket, which occurred three days ago.

Villagers cutting across caste and religious lines gathered on the streets holding placards with Sanket’s photograph and lit candles as a mark of tribute. They raised slogans condemning the killing and appealed for peace in the area.

Locals alleged that the root cause of Sanket's murder was rampant drug trafficking and illegal liquor shops in the area. The villagers demanded that such anti-social elements preying on innocent youth be stopped.

During the protest, locals again alleged that rampant drug trafficking and illegal liquor sales in the locality were among the reasons behind the incident. They demanded strict action against those involved and called upon authorities to curb the illegal sale of ganja and alcohol, which they claimed was misleading youth and school students in the region.

The protesters later met Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) Kariappa and submitted a memorandum urging immediate measures to control illegal activities.

Sanket (16), an SSLC student of Government High School at Uragadur, was allegedly assaulted outside his school by a group of boys when he intervened in an argument over their cricket match. He was rushed to a hospital but declared dead. Seven minors have reportedly been taken into custody in connection with the incident.