Kerala man killed after alleged ‘Pakistan Zindabad’ chant at Mangaluru cricket match

Mangaluru: A man from Kerala’s Wayanad district died after an assault near Mangaluru in what police are treating as a suspected case of mob lynching. The incident allegedly followed a local cricket match during which a provocative slogan was reportedly shouted, leading to tensions in the area.

The deceased has been identified as Ashraf, a resident of Pulpalli village in Sultan Bathery Taluk. Authorities confirmed his identity on Tuesday and notified his family, who are expected to arrive in Mangaluru to complete legal formalities and claim the body.

According to Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara, the victim had allegedly shouted “Pakistan Zindabad” during the match held on April 27 in Kudupu village. This reported slogan is believed to have triggered outrage among locals and onlookers.

The assault occurred near the Bhatra Kallurti temple on the outskirts of Mangaluru. Police said the victim was beaten with sticks by a group of individuals, leading to multiple internal injuries and death. He was declared dead at a nearby hospital.

So far, 20 people have been arrested in connection with the case, including five detained on Tuesday. Investigators are examining CCTV footage and questioning witnesses to determine the full sequence of events and identify additional suspects.

“We are pursuing all leads to ensure that justice is served,” a senior Mangaluru police official said, noting that the investigation is ongoing.

Home Minister Parameshwara stated that the case is being taken seriously and that instructions have been issued to carry out a fair and impartial investigation. “The law will take its course, and any individuals found guilty will be held accountable,” he said.

The case has renewed concerns about communal tensions in coastal Karnataka, a region that has witnessed sporadic incidents of violence in the past. Community leaders and rights groups have called for restraint and demanded transparency in the investigation.

The body has been sent for post-mortem examination, and a detailed medical report is awaited. Authorities indicated that legal charges are likely to include murder, unlawful assembly, and incitement to violence.

A spokesperson from a local human rights forum said, “Regardless of any provocation, violence cannot be justified. Legal institutions exist to handle such situations, and the rule of law must be respected.”
(With PTI inputs)