Gauri Lankesh murder forces government to provide security cover to progressive thinkers
- Gauri Lankesh reportedly had threats but never disclosed it to the government
- After her murder, the government identified 35 writers and intellectuals as facing threat
- Minister Vinay Kulkarni gets 'Z' category security as he too is facing threats
FollowWoken up by the shocking murder of journalist-activist Gauri Lankesh, the state government has decided to extend security cover to a few progressive thinkers who have been perceived to be under threat. The security cover will be provided to writer and theatre artiste Girsh Karnad, writers Prof Chandrashekhar Patil, KS Bhagwan, Nidumamidi Mutt seer Veerabhadra Channamalla Swami among 18 others.
Journalist-activist Gauri Lankesh and researcher Dr MM Kalburgi who were vocal about their Leftist ideologies were shot down by miscreants. Following the murder of journalist Gauri Lankesh, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah had stated that his government would provide security to those who seek to it. The government has reportedly asked the police personnel to identify those who are facing threats. It is reported that the police have been asked to give protection to them even if they don't want it.
According to the Times of India, Karnad and Bhagwan were given security after the murder of Kalburgi. However, it was withdrawn, later. "This time it may not happen because we cannot afford to allow another killing, especially with assembly polls are round the corner," reports The Times of India, quoting a government official.
While the majority of the perceived targets are from the Left ideologies, the government has asked the police not to leave behind the right-wing intellectuals. However, it is not clear, who is getting the police protection from the Right wing intellectuals camp. Meanwhile, 'Aa Dinagalu' actor Chethan who is actively involved in various causes has reportedly sought protection from the police.
Meanwhile, former bureaucrat SM Jamdar who has been spearheading the movement demanding a separate religion for Lingayats too has been given security cover. Jamdar has been receiving threats to distance himself from the movement, reports The Hindu. "For now, I don't want to identify who they are. I will disclose their names at an appropriate time," reports The Hindu quoting Jamdar.
Besides, Mines and Geology minister Vinay Kulkarni has been provided Z category security by the State Home Department as he faces a threat to his life.
