Belthangady (Karnataka): The tragic murder of Neha Hiremath, a college student from Karnataka, by her former classmate Fayaz has sparked a heated political debate. The BJP has labeled it as a case of ‘love jihad’, while the Congress party has refuted these claims.

Reports suggest that BJP Karnataka is gearing up for protests across the state in response to the incident. Addressing the case, which unfolded on the college campus in Hubli-Dharwad, BJP President BY Vijayendra expressed to ANI that, at first glance, it appears to be a case of love jihad. He criticized the CM for what he perceives as an attempt to shield the culprits rather than focusing on a thorough investigation.

“The current Congress government seems indifferent to everything. Previously, when a blast occurred in Mangalore, Deputy CM DK Shivakumar dismissed it as a minor isolated incident, not a terrorist attack. Subsequently, after an investigation, numerous individuals were apprehended. Regarding the Hubballi-Dharwad tragedy, the CM’s response is deeply regrettable. Instead of extending support to the grieving family, he claims the murder was due to personal enmity. Women across the state are questioning the government,” Vijayendra stated.

Additionally, the state BJP chief highlighted the lack of women’s safety in Karnataka, despite the Congress’ promises. “In the past three days alone, over eight murders have taken place in the state without any action. Even the state Home Minister’s statements align with this. There’s no room for doubt,” Vijayendra emphasized.

In response, Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah asserted that all recent murders were due to personal motives. He defended the state’s law and order situation, stating, “We have a strong duty to uphold law and order in Karnataka, and we are fulfilling that duty.” Niranjan Hiremath, Congress Corporator and the victim’s father, recounted, “As my daughter was returning from college, an unknown assailant attacked her, stabbing her seven times, resulting in her immediate death. The perpetrator has been apprehended. The motive behind this heinous act was my daughter’s rejection of the accused’s proposal. We had previously discussed with the accused that, being Hindu while he is Muslim, we could not approve of their marriage.”