Mangaluru, May 31 (UNI) In a veiled attack on BJP, Karnataka Health Minister and senior Congress leader Dinesh Gundu Rao on Saturday warned that a small minority is deliberately exploiting the recent communal violence and murders in Dakshina Kannada and neighbouring districts to further their own personal and political ambitions.

Speaking on the escalating tensions in Dakshina Kannada, Udupi and Shivamogga, Rao said only two to three per cent of the people are using the volatile situation to sow hatred and division for electoral gains. "While the overwhelming majority of the people seek peace and stability, this small section is trying to turn tragic incidents into political capital," he said.

Rao's remarks come amid rising communal disturbances that have deeply unsettled the public and administration alike. He said the government has acted swiftly by forming a dedicated anti-communal special action force to monitor and control community unrest in the region.

Highlighting the government’s resolve, Rao said the police have been given a free hand to act against all illegal activities without fear or favour. "We have appointed new police leadership, including a Commissioner and Superintendents, to ensure strict enforcement of the law. Anyone found indulging in illegal acts, regardless of their religion, caste or political affiliation, will face strict consequences,” he added.

The Minister also expressed concern over the rise in "hate speech", which he described as a key factor fueling communal tensions. He said the government is exploring new legislation to curb inflammatory rhetoric and religious insults, aiming to balance free speech with social harmony.

"This is not about curbing legitimate expression, but about preventing deliberate provocations that threaten peace," Rao said.

He appealed to all communities to reject attempts to divide them and called on political parties to desist from exploiting communal fault lines for narrow gains.

Notably, Mangaluru has seen three murders in a month, including the killing of former Bajrang Dal activist Suhas Shetty on May 1.

On Monday, 42-year-old Imtiyaz, a pickup driver and secretary of a local mosque, was hacked to death in broad daylight near Ira Kodi in Bantwal taluk.

Imtiyaz was an active member of the South Canara Sunni Federation. His killing was reported to be in revenge for Suhas Shetty's murder.

UNI BDN RN