Senior BJP leader R. Ashoka criticized the Congress-led Karnataka government for failing to protect devotees at the Male Mahadeshwara Hills shrine from recent leopard attacks. Ashoka questioned the government’s administrative failure and negligence following the deaths of two devotees in three leopard attacks within a short period. He condemned the government for allegedly prioritizing revenue collection over devotees’ safety despite charging significant entry fees from visitors.
Ashoka highlighted the lack of adequate security measures for pilgrims visiting the shrine, pointing out the government’s failure to address the increasing incidents of wild animal attacks. He specifically called out the district in-charge minister and the Male Mahadeshwara Swamy Area Development Authority for their apparent inaction in ensuring devotees’ safety. Ashoka urged Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and the district minister to implement immediate and stringent measures to safeguard devotees visiting the temple.
The BJP leader recounted recent incidents of leopard attacks in the region, including the dragging away and killing of a boy by a leopard. Despite these alarming events, Ashoka emphasized the government’s failure to establish proper security, wildlife control, and emergency medical facilities to protect people visiting the area. He criticized the authorities for their lack of concern for public safety and urged swift action to prevent further tragedies.
