According to the complaint, the victim, identified as Harish, was walking near Party, Second Cross, around 11:15 p.m. when the group stopped him and asked whether he was Hindu or Muslim. When he stated he was Hindu, the men allegedly punched him in the eye and nose and took ₹50,000 in cash along with a gold ring.
Police officials said the attackers fled when a passing motorcyclist approached. Harish attempted to run from the scene during the attack but was chased down and assaulted again before the assailants escaped.
The FIR notes that Harish sought treatment at two hospitals before approaching police on November 17, reportedly due to fear of reprisals. Doddapete Police have registered a case of assault and robbery and have begun identifying the accused using CCTV footage and local intelligence.
The incident triggered a political response on Monday when Shivamogga MLA S.N. Channabasappa accompanied the victim to the police station and publicly criticised law enforcement. He alleged negligence in maintaining security and claimed residents did not feel safe in the city. He further accused police personnel of prioritising civil disputes over core policing duties and alleged that sensitive information about complainants is sometimes leaked.
Senior police officers have denied negligence and said efforts are underway to trace the suspects. Additional patrols have been deployed in the area.
The case has added to ongoing concerns around law and order in Shivamogga, a district that has seen several communal flashpoints in recent years. Investigations are continuing.
