Neha murder: Karnataka Home Minister apologises, Fayaz's mother issues public apology

The murder of MCA student Neha Hiremath continues to stir emotions and spark debates as new developments unfold.

Karnataka Home Minister Dr G Parameshwara has publicly expressed 'regret' for his earlier comments, acknowledging the pain that may have caused to Neha’s parents.

“If my statements have hurt the feelings of Neha’s parents, I deeply regret," Dr Parameshwara said here on Saturday.

The Home Minister's initial remarks suggesting a romantic involvement between Neha and the accused, Fayaz, had ignited controversy. His use of the phrase "in love" drew widespread criticism, intensifying the emotional turmoil surrounding the tragic incident.

In a separate development, Fayaz's mother, Mumtaz, has also issued a public apology to Neha's grieving family, expressing profound remorse for her son's alleged role in the crime.

Reacting to these developments, Neha's mother, Geetha, emotionally pleaded, “Ask them to bring back my daughter. I am waiting for my daughter. The accused should be punished; he should be hanged. We know our daughter. There was no relationship between the two. Did our daughter not know which religion she belonged to? We always spent time together; she shared everything with me.”

Neha's father, a Congress Corporator, has consistently referred to the case as "love jihad," emphasizing the divisive and polarizing nature of the incident.

Neha was tragically stabbed to death on the college campus in Hubballi city. Following the incident, students acted swiftly, chasing Fayaz, apprehending him, and handing him over to the police.

The murder of Neha has ignited intense debate, raising critical questions about student safety on college campuses and broader societal issues. As legal proceedings continue, Bengaluru remains in mourning, with many demanding justice for Neha.