Udupi, March 4, 2026: Five persons, including a juvenile, have been arrested in connection with a violent knife assault on right-wing leader Manjunath Salian alias Manju Kola near Blue Waves Guest House in Malpe late last night.

According to the complaint filed by Santosh A. Amin, the accused arrived at the spot in a white Bolero vehicle (KA-19-AD-1036) with the common intention of committing an offence. The arrested individuals have been identified as Amruth Bhandary (22), Pragnesh (22), and Punit Poojary (24) — all from Palimaru village — and Abhijith (20) from Inna village, Karkala taluk. A minor (juvenile in conflict with law) was also involved.

The altercation reportedly began over a personal dispute concerning the sister of accused Amruth Bhandary. When Manjunath questioned the group, they allegedly abused him in filthy language. The situation escalated into physical assault: the accused pushed and hit the victims, and Pragnesh is accused of pulling out a knife from his pocket with intent to kill and stabbing Manjunath on the left side of his abdomen, causing severe bleeding injuries. Varun and Lathish also sustained knife wounds during the attack. Santosh and others who intervened were allegedly kicked, assaulted, and threatened before the group fled.

Manjunath Salian, known locally for his right-wing activism, and the other injured persons received immediate medical attention and are stable, police sources said.

The case was registered at Malpe police station and investigated by PSI Eeranna Shiragumpi under the supervision of CPI Ramachandra Nayak (Malpe Circle) and DySP Belliappa (Udupi Sub-Division). The four adult accused were arrested in a swift operation and will be produced before the court after completing legal formalities. The juvenile will be presented before the Juvenile Justice Board.

GangolliNews

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