Gauri Lankesh murder: Vikram Sampath’s statement recorded by SIT

Writer Vikram Sampath's statement was recorded by the Special Investigating Team which is probing the murder of journalist and activist Gauri Lankesh.

According to Sampath, the SIT lacked a constructive approach towards the probe since the official who came to record his statement did not respond to his article on Gauri Lankesh, but like any law abiding citizen he simply cooperated. 

The writer expressed concern about the way SIT is going ahead with the probe and said whether SIT will question each and everyone that Gauri Lankesh have been critical about. As a fearless journalist Gauri has been critical about many individuals including the Prime Minster. 

The writer also asked media, politicians and intellectuals not to put forth their theories on who might have killed Gauri. “No one – media, intellectuals, politicians or anyone else – should jump the gun.They should allow SIT to investigate the matter. Pressure would only create more confusion,” he added.

The Karnataka government had on September 6 announced the formation of a 21-member SIT team to investigate the killing of Gauri that led to a wave of countrywide protests and condemnation across the political spectrum.

Gauri Lankesh, known to be an anti-establishment voice with strident anti-right wing views, was shot dead at close range by unknown assailants at her home here on the night of September 5. A few other writers were also reportedly questioned by the SIT in connection with the murder.

(With PTI inputs)