In a shocking incident, a Jain Muni was brutally murdered and his body was allegedly dismembered in Belgavi district of Karnataka.
The Jain Muni, went missing on July 5 from his ashram in a village in Belagavi’s Chikodi taluk, was allegedly murdered, police said on July 8. Two people have been arrested in connection with the case.
Acharya Sri Kamakumara Nandi Maharaj was staying at Nandi Parvata Jain Basadi for the past 15 years, they said. The Jain Muni’s devotees lodged a missing complaint with the police on July 6.
Police have reportedly taken 2 persons into custody. He was allegedly killed by unidentified suspects for demanding the return of money lent to them. It is learnt that he was abducted from the Ashram where he lived and was murdered.
During the investigation, suspicion fell on an acquaintance of the deceased, who was subsequently taken into custody and questioned.
The suspect eventually confessed to the murder of the Jain muni. The motive behind the heinous act appears to be related to a monetary dispute, as the accused had borrowed money from the Jain Muni and failed to repay it.
The mounting pressure from the Jain muni to return the funds allegedly led to the fatal outcome. “Prima facie it appears that the Jain monk was murdered over a money issue,” said a police officer.
“On July 6, manager of the Basadi, Bheemappa Ugare, lodged a complaint about the missing Jain Muni. We started investigation and detained two people in connection with the case. Our search is on for the body,” Police sources said.
Meanwhile, police have intensified the search for the mortal remains. The accused seemed to have made conflicting statements during the investigation about the location where the body was dumped. Police searched several areas including a tube well in Katakabavi village.
Police have also increased security arrangements in Chikkodi taluk and Raibag taluk to prevent any untoward incidents.
The Jain muni, born on June 6, 1967 in Karnataka, was previously known as Bhramappa during his childhood. He was initiated into monkhood by Acharya Shri 108 Kunthu Sagar Ji Maharaj. Further investigation is underway and more details are awaited.
