MANDYA: The police have recorded the statements of family members of Govindaraju, a Dalit boy, in connection with investigation into the ‘honour killing’ of Suvarna, an upper caste girl, who fell in love with him.
Family members of Govindaraju accused Suvarna’s parents of barging into their house and dragging her away and hanging her for falling in love with him. They also demanded police protection for them and other Dalit families of Ambalawadi village in Maddur taluk.
Govindaraju, who fled after the attack by Suvarna’s family members, is staying with his relatives in Tumkur district. The police, have, meanwhile, appealed to Govindaraju to appear before them and give his statement based on which a case can be built. But the boy, who had spoken to the Media and others over phone, has refrained from doing so, fearing a backlash from the deceased girl’s family. Four persons have been arrested till date in the case: Thimmesh, Raju and Ravi and another person.
National Schedule Caste Commission chairman Shivanna, during his visit to Ambalawadi, was greeted with deserted houses of Dalits. He held talks with some women. Shivanna criticised the police for the delay in investigating the case.
He also instructed the police to ensure protection to the Dalit families.