The call for a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the alleged shooting of three Tamil-origin men by the Karnataka Forest Department has intensified in the Tamil Nadu Assembly. The incident, reported to have occurred on August 15, has drawn significant attention from multiple opposition parties, including the AIADMK, led by Edappadi K Palaniswami.

Palaniswami proposed a motion for the inquiry, which was supported by numerous members from various opposition factions. The leaders voiced their concerns regarding the incident and insisted on a comprehensive, high-level investigation into what they termed as a tragic murder.

The men involved were identified as Anthony Sami, John Rose Peter, and Kumar, all from Tamil Nadu. The shooting originated from an alleged anti-poaching operation by the Karnataka Forest Department within the Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary, located in Chamarajanagar district.

Demands for Compensation and Judicial Inquiry

In the wake of the incident, Ganesh Kumar, the PMK leader, announced a demand for Rs 1 crore compensation for the families of the deceased. Alongside Kumar, several other prominent leaders from the opposition, including Tamil Nadu Congress MLA Tharahai Tuchbert and CPI MLA Thali Ramachandran, echoed the call for a CBI inquiry into these events.

DMK MLA Manoj Pandian characterised the alleged shooting as a blatant violation of human rights. He emphasised that the three individuals were reportedly searching for their cattle when they were shot, labelling the act as a potential fake encounter. Pandian also stressed the need for proper compensation for the victims’ families and a judicial inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the killings.

Furthermore, he labelled the incident as indicative of broader systemic failings, insisting that justice must be served for the Tamil victims. He proposed a thorough investigation to ensure accountability from the authorities involved.

Government Response and Official Statements

The Tamil Nadu government responded to the mounting pressure during the assembly session. Tamil Nadu Law Minister CTR Nirmal Kumar addressed the concerns, stating that the Karnataka government had already issued Rs 5 lakh in compensation to the affected families. He referred to the actions of the Karnataka government as insufficient and reiterated the demand for a detailed inquiry into the incident.

Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay also condemned the actions of the Karnataka Forest Department, labelling the shooting as a brutal incident. He shared his thoughts on social media, expressing sorrow over the killings of Anthony Sami, John Rose Peter, and Kumar, who were said to be residents of Hanur taluk in Chamarajanagar district.

Chief Minister Vijay demanded a comprehensive investigation into the matter and called the Karnataka government’s explanation “unacceptable.” He urged the neighbouring state to conduct an honest and thorough inquiry to ensure justice for the victims and prevent similar occurrences in the future.

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