A CID probe has been ordered in the Hanur encounter case after autopsy reports contradicted forest officials' claims of long-range firing.
- The CID has taken over the investigation into the August 15 shooting in Hanur.
- Postmortem reports indicate close-range shots, contradicting forest department claims.
- Political tension rises as BJP demands a CBI inquiry and heavy compensation.
The Karnataka Police have officially ordered a Criminal Investigation Department (CID) probe into the August 15 shooting of three alleged poachers in the Hanur region. The decision follows a bombshell revelation in the postmortem reports, which suggest that at least one victim was shot at extremely close range, directly challenging the narrative provided by forest officials.
Contradicting the Official Narrative
According to the autopsy conducted at the Mysore Medical College and Research Institute, the findings regarding Sebastian David Kumar are particularly damning. The report notes 'burning/scorching' and 'singeing' of chest hair and soot deposits around the wounds, which are classic indicators of a close-range discharge. This starkly contrasts with the Forest Department's assertion that the suspects were positioned on high-altitude rocks and were shot from a distance during a confrontation.
The presence of singeing and soot at the entry wounds strongly suggests that the shots were fired from point-blank range, not from a distance.
The victims—Anthony Swamy, John Rose Peter, and Sebastian David Kumar—were residents of villages near the Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary. A fourth man, Joseph Mahima Das, managed to escape and has alleged that the men were sleeping in the forest while searching for lost cattle when the firing occurred.
Why This Matters
BozokMedia analysis shows that this incident has transcended a simple wildlife protection operation and has become a significant test of state accountability. The discrepancy between forensic evidence and official statements creates a crisis of trust between the local community and the forest administration. If the CID finds that the 'encounter' was indeed an execution at close range, it could trigger widespread unrest and legal repercussions for the department.
Political Fallout and Demands for CBI Probe
The incident has ignited a political firestorm in Karnataka. BJP State President B Y Vijayendra has demanded a CBI investigation, questioning why the postmortem reports were not immediately made public. He has also called for a compensation of ₹1 crore for each bereaved family and government employment for a family member.
| Aspect | Forest Department Version | Autopsy/Eyewitness Version |
|---|---|---|
| Firing Range | Long Range (from higher altitude) | Close Range (indicated by singeing) |
| Victim Status | Active Poachers | Sleeping/Searching for Cattle |
| Intent | Self-Defense | Alleged Extrajudicial Killing |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the main discrepancy in the case?
The Forest Department claims the shooting was long-range self-defense, whereas the autopsy shows evidence of close-range firing.
2. What has the BJP demanded?
The BJP has demanded a CBI probe and ₹1 crore compensation for each victim's family.
