Speaker UT Khader clarifies on Suhas Shetty case, urges peace amid rumours

Karnataka Legislative Assembly Speaker UT Khader has issued a public clarification over allegations of political vendetta in the murder case of Suhas Shetty, which occurred within the Kavoor police station limits of Mangaluru city.

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Following the incident, rumours suggesting a communal or religious motive led to rising tensions in the region. Khader, however, reiterated that from the outset, he had expressed suspicion that the murder could be linked to gang rivalry and emphasized that the truth would emerge only after investigation following the arrest of the culprits.

Addressing claims that Suhas Shetty's killing was revenge for the 2022 murder of Fazil, Khader stated that Fazil’s father and brothers personally contacted him and denied any involvement. "They said clearly the incident was not connected to them," Khader said, adding that misinformation at the local level had unnecessarily created unrest.

Khader strongly criticised local political leaders who, he said, attempted to incite communal tension for political gain before any arrests were made. He stressed that such actions are not only irresponsible but also undermine constitutional values.

He urged citizens to trust the ongoing police investigation and act with restraint. “Deliberate misinterpretation of my statements is an attack on social harmony,” he said. “In times like these, people must behave responsibly and work towards peace and development in the district.”