Hanur Shooting Case: R Ashoka Demands Judicial Probe Into Deaths

Karnataka Opposition Leader R Ashoka has demanded a judicial inquiry into the deaths of three men in a shooting involving forest personnel near Hanur in Chamarajanagar district.

The demand comes after differing accounts emerged about what happened during the incident. Forest officials have reportedly maintained that the three men were involved in killing an animal and were allegedly carrying meat for sale. Relatives of the deceased, however, have questioned the official version and described the incident as a fake encounter.

Ashoka said the conflicting statements have added to the uncertainty surrounding the case. He pointed to differences between the account given by the Forest Department, statements from local representatives and comments from the district in charge minister.

He also questioned whether a proper scene inspection was conducted before the bodies were moved to Mysuru’s KR Hospital. Ashoka claimed that he had spoken to the district Superintendent of Police and was told that a spot inspection had not been completed at that stage.

Another issue raised by the opposition leader concerns the circumstances in which the three men were shot. He said the families have alleged that the victims were shot in the chest, while questions remain over whether the use of lethal force was necessary.

Ashoka also asked whether all three men were carrying weapons and why the forest personnel involved in the shooting have not publicly explained the incident in greater detail. He argued that these questions need to be answered through an independent investigation rather than relying only on departmental accounts.

The chief minister has already ordered a magisterial inquiry into the deaths. Ashoka, however, said a judicial inquiry would provide greater confidence that the investigation is independent and capable of establishing the facts.

He further demanded that officials directly involved in the shooting be kept away from their duties while the investigation is underway, saying this would help prevent any concerns about interference with the inquiry.

Ashoka also criticised Forest Minister Ramalinga Reddy for not visiting the site and meeting those protesting over the incident. He said the government should directly address the concerns of the affected families and local residents.

The case has now become a point of political contention in Karnataka, with the opposition seeking a judicial probe and raising questions about the official version of the shooting. The findings of the ongoing inquiry are expected to determine what led to the deaths and whether the use of force was justified.