Udupi BJP Leader Among Three Injured in Malpe Beach Stabbing Clash
In a disturbing incident at Malpe Beach in Udupi, a violent altercation on Tuesday night resulted in three youths sustaining injuries, including local BJP leader Manjunath Salian, popularly known as Manju Kola. The clash, which involved a stabbing, has led to the arrest of four individuals and a minor by the police.
Details of the Malpe Beach Incident
According to Udupi Superintendent of Police Hariram Shankar, the incident unfolded around 9:30 PM near the Blue Waves Guest House. The accused—identified as Amruth Bhandary, Prajnesh, Puneeth Poojary, and Abhijith—reportedly arrived in a white SUV accompanied by a minor. They allegedly formed an unlawful assembly and were armed with a knife.
The confrontation began when the group approached the complainant, Santosh A Amin, and his friends—Manju, Dhanush, Lathish, and Varun—who were seated on the seashore discussing a matter related to Amruth Bhandary's sister. When Manju questioned their presence, the accused allegedly responded with verbal abuse and physical assault.
Police reports indicate that Prajnesh, with apparent intent to kill, retrieved a knife from his trouser pocket and stabbed Manju on the left side of his abdomen. Varun and Lathish were also stabbed and injured during the altercation. Following the stabbing, the accused allegedly kicked and beat Santosh, Dhanush, Lathish, and Varun, issuing threats before fleeing the scene.
Police Response and Arrests
A case has been registered under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including 189(2), 191(2), 191(3), 352, 109, 115(2), 118(1), 351(2), and 190, at the Malpe police station. In a swift operation, police arrested Amruth Bhandary (22), Prajnesh (22), Puneeth Poojary (24) from Kaup, and Abhijith (20) from Inna village in Karkala taluk. The minor involved will be presented before the Juvenile Justice Board.
The arrests were conducted under the supervision of Udupi Deputy Superintendent of Police Belliappa and Circle Police Inspector Ramachandra Nayak. The investigation is being led by Police Sub-Inspector Eeranna Shiragumpi, with assistance from head constable Adarsh and other staff members. The accused are set to be produced before the jurisdictional court after completing necessary formalities.
Broader Context and Implications
This incident highlights ongoing concerns about public safety and violence in coastal areas like Malpe Beach. The involvement of a political figure adds a layer of complexity, potentially drawing attention to local tensions and security measures. Authorities are emphasizing the seriousness of the charges, which include unlawful assembly and attempted murder, to deter similar acts in the future.
Residents and visitors are urged to remain vigilant, especially during evening hours, as police continue to investigate the motives behind the attack. The case underscores the importance of community cooperation in maintaining law and order, with efforts focused on preventing such violent outbreaks from recurring in popular tourist destinations.
