Bantwal MLA Rajesh Naik Injured in Hit-and-Run Outside Temple Event in Mangaluru

Mangaluru | June 2, 2025 —
In a shocking incident that has rattled political circles in coastal Karnataka, Rajesh Naik, the sitting Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) from Bantwal constituency, was injured in a hit-and-run accident on Sunday evening. The incident occurred just minutes after he stepped out from a public event near the Sri Gopal Krishna Temple in Tenka Yedapadavu, a quiet village about 30 kilometers from Mangaluru.

According to eyewitnesses and police reports, the incident took place around 6:40 PM, when Naik was crossing the road on foot after addressing a local gathering commemorating the temple’s annual festival.

What Happened: Sudden Impact, Swift Escape

Naik, who had just exited the temple premises along with a few aides and event organizers, was about to step into his vehicle when a speeding white SUV approached from the southern lane of the village bypass road.

“It all happened in seconds. A vehicle came out of nowhere and struck him while he was just a few steps from the sidewalk,” said Shivaraj Poojary, a temple volunteer who was present on the scene.

Naik fell onto the pavement, suffering injuries to his left leg and shoulder. The vehicle did not stop and continued northbound, disappearing into the narrow rural roads before anyone could capture the registration plate clearly.

Immediate Medical Attention and Stable Condition

Naik was immediately rushed to Father Muller Medical College Hospital in Mangaluru, where doctors confirmed that while he suffered soft tissue injuries and bruising, no bones were fractured.

“He is stable and recovering. He will be kept under observation for 24 hours as a precaution,” stated Dr. Harsha Pai, a senior orthopaedic surgeon.

The MLA is expected to resume limited public duties later this week, though doctors have advised rest due to the impact trauma on his upper body.

Police Investigation Underway

The Mangaluru Rural Police Station has registered a case of hit-and-run under IPC Sections 279 (rash driving) and 338 (causing grievous hurt by act endangering life). Authorities are examining CCTV footage from nearby houses and shops in Tenka Yedapadavu.

“We are tracking down the vehicle with assistance from highway surveillance units and automatic number plate recognition systems,” confirmed SP Dr. Arun K., Superintendent of Police, Dakshina Kannada.

Locals claim the vehicle might have been part of a tourist convoy or was en route from the nearby national highway via Kalladka junction.

Political and Public Reaction

The incident sparked immediate responses from political leaders across party lines:

• Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah tweeted, “Wishing Rajesh Naik a speedy recovery. Such reckless disregard for life must be condemned.”

• Former CM B.S. Yediyurappa, under whom Naik served in the legislative assembly, called the incident “deeply disturbing” and urged police to “leave no stone unturned” in tracking down the accused.

• Congress MLA U.T. Khader also visited Naik in the hospital, calling the attack “a grim reminder of rising road safety concerns in the region.”

Local BJP units organized a candlelight vigil Sunday night in B.C. Road town, expressing solidarity and demanding swift justice.

Background: Naik’s Local Popularity and Temple Engagement

Rajesh Naik is known for his grassroots engagement and advocacy for rural development in Bantwal, especially in agriculture and temple heritage preservation. A former organic farmer, he enjoys strong support across coastal Karnataka’s agrarian communities.

The event at Sri Gopal Krishna Temple, where he had just finished speaking, was centered around promoting eco-conscious temple rituals and boosting regional tourism.

His injury, though non-life-threatening, has shaken his constituents, many of whom see him as a hands-on leader who frequently attends small-scale community events without elaborate security.

Conclusion: Another Wake-Up Call for Road Safety

This incident has reignited concerns around VIP movement safety, especially in rural zones where surveillance and traffic control are minimal. In the wake of rising hit-and-run cases across Karnataka, including incidents involving school children and migrant workers, citizens are demanding better traffic regulation enforcement, even on village roads.

Until the perpetrator is caught, the people of Bantwal—and the political establishment of Karnataka—wait anxiously, hoping that this event serves not only as a call for justice but also a catalyst for better public safety.