Mangaluru, May 20: A war of words has erupted between BJP and Congress leaders following the arrest of BJP Yuva Morcha leader Shashiraj Shetty.
Belthangady MLA Harish Poonja, who led a protest at the Belthangady police station and argued with the police, has been booked for allegedly using unconstitutional language and trying to stop officials from discharging their duty.
The Belthangady Police had filed a case against Shashiraj Shetty and Pramod Ujire for illegal stone mining and also under Section 9B(1)(B) of the Explosives Act 1884 and Section 5 of the Explosive Substances Act 1908. Following this the police arrested Shashiraj Shetty, also a rowdy sheeter, on May 18.
Shetty is also BJP Yuva Morcha leader in Belthangady.
In response to his arrest, Belthangady MLA Harish Poonja, accompanied by party leaders and workers, visited the police station and protested against the police's actions. Poonja allegedly pressured the police to release Shetty, threatened officers, obstructed their duties, and used unconstitutional language.
Consequently, a case has been registered against MLA Harish Poonja at the Belthangady police station under IPC Sections 353 (Assault or criminal force to deter public servant from discharge of his duty) and 504 (Intentional insult with intent to provoke breach of the peace.).
While BJP leaders have accused the Congress of orchestrating the arrest, Congress leaders have criticized Poonja's behavior at the police station.
District in-charge minister Dinesh Gundu Rao stated, "While the police took legal action against a BJP Yuva Morcha leader involved in illegal stone mining, MLA Poonja supported the accused and exhibited a goon-like attitude towards the police who are responsible for maintaining peace and order."
Rao further added, "This behavior from Poonja is inexcusable. The BJP shows no respect for the constitution and disregards the law and order of society. It is evident that the BJP MLA is engaging in politics by supporting such individuals."
