Karnataka Forest Encounter: Vijay Condemns Deaths of Three Tamil Men, Demands High-Level Probe

He stated that the explanation given by the Karnataka Forest Department cannot be accepted. He demanded an impartial investigation, the formation of a high-level inquiry committee, and the punishment of the culprits. He also appealed to the Karnataka government to provide all possible assistance to the families of the victims.

An encounter reportedly occurred between Forest Department personnel and four individuals in the Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary (Hennur taluk) on the morning of August 15.

According to the Forest Department, during an operation against suspected poachers, the officers opened fire, prompting the officers to return fire. Three individuals were killed, while a fourth was injured or escaped. The department claims to have recovered unlicensed weapons and deer meat.

The deceased have been identified as Anthony Sami (or Antony Swamy, around 50 years old), John Rose Peter (around 42-43 years old), and Kumar (Sebastian David Kumar/Savariyappan, around 33-35 years old). They are said to be Tamil farmers living in villages in Hennur taluk.

The families allege that they had gone to the forest in search of missing cattle and that this was a fake encounter. Based on a complaint filed by the deceased's wife, Hennur police have registered a murder case against forest officials under sections of the Indian Penal Code.

Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has ordered a magisterial inquiry. Protests have also erupted in the area.