Bengaluru (Aryavarth): Mysuru witnessed a resolute display of unity as members of the Jain community came together to stage a rally, demanding justice and protection in the aftermath of the gruesome murder of Sri Kamakumar Nandi Maharaj. The rally served as a powerful expression of the community’s resolve to seek justice for the revered monk.
The members of Digambar Jain Samaj, Shwetambar Jain Samaj, Jain Terapanth Yuvak Mandal, Sthanakavasi, Mandir Margi, and several other organizations gathered at Gandhi Square in Mysuru to stage a silent protest. Holding placards, they marched from the premises of Adishwar Vatika Apartment on Male Mahadeshwara Road, leading to the new Deputy Commissioner’s Office in Siddarthanagar.
The silent march was led by Acharya Tirth Bhadra Chunchi Maharaj and 108 Sri Pragalbh Muni Maharaj. A memorandum addressed to Home Minister Dr. G. Parameshwara was submitted to Additional Deputy Commissioner Dr. Kavita Rajaram.
Prominent Jain leaders, Mahaveer Chand Bhansali and Buddhmal Bagmar Sai, emphasized the importance of justice and protection for Jain monks. Mahaveer Chand Bhansali stated, “We demand justice for the heinous murder of Sri Kamakumar Nandi Maharaj. Such acts of violence should not go unpunished.” Buddhmal Bagmar Sai echoed this sentiment, saying, “The Jain community seeks protection for monks and stringent punishment for the culprits involved in this brutal crime.”
“Justice must prevail in the heinous murder of Sri Kamakumar Nandi Maharaj. We demand an impartial investigation and strict punishment for the culprits to ensure the safety and security of our community. Let this tragedy serve as a catalyst for change and a renewed commitment to upholding the principles of peace and compassion,” said Vinod Bakliwal, President of Teertha Kshetra Committee Karnataka.
The loss of Sri Kamakumar Nandi Maharaj has deeply affected the Jain community. Madan Lal Maru expressed the collective sorrow, stating, “The entire community mourns the loss of Sri Kamakumar Nandi Maharaj, a dedicated spiritual leader who made significant contributions to society.”
The rally sent a strong message against violence and injustice. Mahaveer Chand Bhansali reiterated the community’s stance, stating, “Our rally serves as a firm stance against violence and injustice. We stand united in our pursuit of justice and the preservation of peace.”
Prakash Dak Royal emphasized the profound impact of the monk’s tragic death, stating, “The Jain community mourns the loss of a dedicated spiritual leader, whose teachings and philanthropic activities left an indelible mark on our lives.”
The Jain community’s rally showcased their determination to seek justice for Sri Kamakumar Nandi Maharaj and their unwavering commitment to preserving the safety and well-being of Jain monks. As their voices echoed through the streets of Mysuru, the community’s message resounded, calling for justice, protection, and a society free from violence and injustice.
In connection with the murder case, the Karnataka police have arrested two individuals, Narayana Basappa Madi and Hassan Dalayath. Preliminary investigations indicate that the monk was killed over a monetary dispute involving one of his devotees at the ashram on July 6. The devotee is among the two arrested. On Sunday, the Karnataka police detained an additional 12 people for questioning, highlighting the ongoing efforts to gather more information related to the crime.
Protests by the Jain community have extended across the state of Karnataka. In Mangaluru, members of the Jain community conducted a silent protest, demanding a high-level investigation, stringent punishment for the culprits, and increased protection for Jain monks.
Meanwhile, BJP legislators staged a sit-in demonstration near the Gandhi statue outside Vidhana Soudha on Wednesday, demanding a CBI probe into the murder. Led by former Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai, the legislators voiced their concerns over the perceived deterioration of law and order in the state, specifically citing this tragic incident.
In response to calls for a CBI investigation, Home Minister Dr. G. Parameshwara assured reporters on Monday that the Karnataka police are competent to handle the case without any bias or discrimination. He emphasized that there is no pressure on the police and they are diligently working towards resolving the case.
