Bhatkal: The members of rickshaw Drivers' Association of Bhatkal, on Monday, gheraod the Bhatkal town police station alleging harrassment on the auto rickshaw driver in wake of the Kogti Temple interrogation. 

The auto drivers protested against the alleged police harrassment on the auto driver, Uday Gonda, a resident of Maarukeri who was called on to the interrogation. The protestors alleged that Uday Gonda was compelled by the police to accept the crimes which he did not commit and was even physically assaulted. However, PSI Rivathi has denied all the allegations of the protestors. 

Furthermore, PSI Rivathi called the leaders of the Association and clarified that the police investigation on Kogti temple incident was carried on by a different team. The leaders in reply, demanded that the names of the police team must be revealed and the driver should be done justice. If not a protest would be staged, they warned.

Venkatesh Naik, Nayeem, Suresh Naik, Manju Naik, Mastappa Naik of Rickshaw Owners and Drivers Association were present.

According to the police sources, the butcher has identified the person who has bought meat a day before Kogti Nagar temple incident. It is said that the driver has also admitted to the fact during questioning. But it is still not known yet about who he has delivered the meat packet. It is suspected that it is a ploy to change the direction of the investigation by creating such chaos.  It is also gathered that the main culprit will be arrested within a few days.

Speaking to the reporters, PSI Rivathi has clarified that the allegations of harrassment and torture is baseless and false. She also added that the direction of the investigation will not be diverted in any case.