I Strongly Condemn This Massacre’: Vijay Demands Probe Into Killing of Three Tamilians

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam president C Joseph Vijay has strongly condemned the killing of three Tamil men in Karnataka’s Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary, describing the incident as a “massacre” and demanding a high-level investigation. The three men were killed in the early hours of August 15 in Hanur taluk of Chamarajanagar district.

Three Tamil Men Killed in Forest Area

The deceased have been identified as Anthony Sami, John Rose Peter and Kumar, who were residents of villages in Hanur taluk. A fourth man, identified as Mahima Das, reportedly escaped and was later taken to hospital with injuries. The incident occurred during an alleged exchange of fire involving Karnataka Forest Department personnel.

The Karnataka Forest Department has maintained that its personnel were conducting an anti-poaching operation. Officials claimed that the men were suspected of poaching and had firearms and wild animal meat with them. However, the families of the deceased and the surviving man have disputed this version, saying the men were farmers.

Vijay Calls Explanation ‘Unacceptable’

Reacting to the incident, Vijay said the explanation given by the Karnataka Forest Department was unacceptable and called for an impartial investigation into what happened.

He demanded that the Karnataka government constitute a high-level inquiry committee and take appropriate action against anyone found responsible. Vijay also urged the government to provide necessary assistance to the families of the victims and take steps to prevent such an incident from happening again.

Karnataka Orders Magisterial Inquiry

Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has ordered a magisterial inquiry into the firing. The inquiry is expected to examine the circumstances surrounding the deaths, including claims about who opened fire first and whether the forest personnel acted in self-defence. The state government has also assured compensation to the victims’ families.

Political Outrage Grows

The incident has triggered strong reactions across Tamil Nadu. Several political parties, including the DMK, CPI, CPM and PMK, have condemned the deaths and called for a fair investigation. The controversy has also raised questions about the circumstances of the firing and the conflicting accounts presented by officials and the victims’ families.

With a magisterial inquiry now underway, attention is focused on establishing the facts and determining accountability. Vijay’s demand for a transparent probe has added to growing calls for justice for the three deceased men and support for their families.