Bengaluru: New twist in Paresh Mesta death case as forensic report belies BJP’s allegations

On Monday evening IG western range of Karnataka Hemant Nimbalakar released the forensic report of the death of 18-year-old Paresh Mesta of Honnavar. 

The 3-page forensic report gives answers to 19 questions which were asked by the investigation officer of this case. The report says "neither is there any evidence of injuries over the body due to weapons, nor any evidence of hot water or chemical being poured on the body was found. The report further says the tattoo on the arm of Paresh's body was intact and colour of body has changed due to putrefaction". The forensic investigation was done by doctors of Kasturba Medical College Manipal.

On December 9, a senior leader of Karnataka BJP and member of parliament Shoba Karandalaje had blamed Popular Front Of India (PFI) for Paresh's death. Shoba said, “Colour of Paresh's body has turned black. It looks like boiling oil was put on his face. He had a tattoo on arm, flesh of that part has been ripped off. Those who killed Paresh have connections with PFI and the government is trying to protect them."

However, police have not clarified the real cause of death. While talking to News Nation, Hemant Nimbalkar, IG western range said, "We are waiting for the viscera report. With the help of that report, we can ascertain the cause of death. We had to release the forensic report because some people were trying to create law and order situation by circulating fake information and we will take strict action against those who are circulating this fake information." 

On Monday late evening, police arrested one person by name Timmappa Parameshvar Nayak, aged 43 years, PE teacher in a private school, residing at Hiregutti, Kumta for spreading false rumours through WhatsApp with respect to the death of Paresh Mesta.

Paresh Mesta was a fisherman who would also participate in the religious functions in the local temple as a drummer.

Meanwhile, BJP leaders will be taking out a protest march on Tuesday in Bengaluru from Vidhan Soudha to Raj Bhawan and submit a memorandum to Governor regarding the death of Paresh.