Mysuru: In a scathing attack on the state government over the horrific rape and murder of a minor girl from a balloon-selling family in Mysuru, former MP Pratap Simha questioned why no one from the administration is raising their voice against the heinous crime. The incident, which occurred during the ongoing Dasara festivities, has shocked the city, with the girl's body discovered in a drain near the Exhibition Grounds on October 9, 2025.

Simha, a prominent BJP leader, took to social media to express his fury, demanding accountability from Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar. "Why aren't CM Siddaramaiah and DK Shivakumar speaking up about this brutality? What kind of manhood led you to become CM, Siddaramaiah? The police have the capability, but they lack the freedom to act effectively," he fumed in a series of posts.Also Read: Bengaluru Auto Driver Abuses Young Woman Over Booking Cancellation

The Tragic Incident; The victim, a minor girl from the Hakki-Pikki community in Kalaburagi, had come to Mysuru with her family to sell balloons and toys during Dasara. The family had set up a temporary tent near Doddakere Maidan. Early on October 9, she went missing while helping with sales. Her body was later found inside a drain near Ittigegud Exhibition Grounds, bearing signs of rape and murder. Police investigations, aided by CCTV footage, led to the swift arrest of the prime accused, identified as Karthik (also referred to as a "psycho" due to his alleged history of deviant behavior) from Siddalingapura in Kollegal.During the arrest, as the accused attempted to flee, police shot him in the leg in self-defense, upholding their professional duty. The family had planned to return to Kalaburagi after the Chamundeshwari Devi Teppotsava concluded on October 8.Safari Flip 32L Casual Printed Backpack, 2 Compartments, Bottle Holder, Front Pocket, School Bag for Boys and Girls, College Bag, Office Bag, Travel Bag for Men and Women

Prathap Simha's Outrage and Call for Action Prathap Simha praised the police's prompt response but lambasted the broader systemic failures. "Even with a robust police system and an efficient judiciary, these lust-driven monsters commit such vile acts without fear. We must curb their audacity with iron-fisted measures," he stated. He urged the government to ensure strict enforcement of laws to prevent such atrocities, emphasizing that mere arrests are insufficient without swift justice.

The case has reignited debates on women's safety in Karnataka, especially during crowded festivals like Dasara. Local authorities have assured a thorough investigation, but opposition leaders like Simha continue to demand immediate high-level intervention. As the probe unfolds, the community mourns the loss of an innocent life, with calls growing for enhanced security for migrant vendors and children in public spaces.