A week after Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA Harish Poonja made anti-Muslim remarks during a temple event in Thekkaru, the management of the Gopalakrishna Temple expressed regret and extended a written apology to the local Muslim community, reported the Maktoob Media on May 12.
During his speech at the Brahmakalashotsava celebrations, Poonja — a two-time MLA from Belthangady — openly questioned the temple’s decision to invite mosque committees, saying, “We have no relation with Muslims.” He further accused Muslim community members of vandalising tube lights and stealing diesel from generators during the temple event.
“Our biggest mistake has been trying to maintain harmony by including everyone… Because you gave them the invitation, they broke the tube lights,” Poonja said in Tulu, urging Hindus to avoid “balancing acts” and to unite across castes. He also remarked on the growing Beary Muslim population in the area, suggesting that demographic changes should concern the Hindu community.
Poonja’s speech sparked outrage, especially as it came amid rising communal tensions in Dakshina Kannada district following two recent murders in Mangaluru.
In response, Muslim Okkoota, a coalition of Muslim groups inThekkaru, submitted a letter condemning the remarks. The temple management – under the GopalakrishnaBhatrabailDevaraguddeSeva Trust – then issued a formal letter of regret.