Belagavi
It’s not uncommon for influential political leaders, religious heads, and senior officials to have their photos misused by others. There have been multiple instances where people took photos with such dignitaries and later exploited them for their own benefit. This issue hasn’t spared even the Prime Minister or Chief Ministers.
Recently, a case has emerged in Belagavi district where a prominent politician had to face embarrassment due to such a photograph. Belagavi, a border district, has several politically influential representatives. Many people, upon meeting these leaders, greet them respectfully, bowing at their feet. Others stand beside them for a photo and promptly upload it on social media.
In such situations, leaders often don’t have the time to observe who is standing next to them or shaking hands for a photograph. However, when individuals in these photos later get involved in criminal cases, those old images resurface, going viral and unfairly implicating the leaders. This has become a growing concern for politicians and officials in Belagavi. The situation has reached a point where they are forced to remain silent, even if their photos are misused. But when such incidents occur, it undeniably puts them in an awkward position.
Moodalagi Kidnapping Case
In the case of the kidnapping of real estate businessman Basavaraj Ambi from Moodalagi, photos of the accused with influential figures have caused dissatisfaction.
The Jarkiholi family holds a strong position in Belagavi politics, enjoying a reputation of influence. However, now, a photo of an accused in the kidnapping case alongside Minister Satish Jarkiholi and MP Priyanka Jarkiholi has surfaced. Some individuals have been posting these images in a way that suggests the dignitaries themselves are at fault. Given the developments, rumors are spreading that unseen forces may be manipulating the situation.
Taken Seriously by Authorities
The police have successfully tackled attempts by accused individuals to evade accountability by flaunting their photos with prominent figures. Additionally, as soon as the news of the kidnapping broke, District In-Charge Minister Satish Jarkiholi personally instructed the police to take the case seriously and proceed with arrests.
Despite this, certain people continue to circulate old photos of the accused with Jarkiholi, leading to widespread discussions on social media.
Satish Jarkiholi’s Response
Regarding the arrest of Manjula Ramaganatti in connection with the kidnapping and ₹5 crore ransom demand, Minister Satish Jarkiholi has provided a clarification.
He stated, “She may have been an acquaintance, but I cannot say for certain. However, we never instructed her to kidnap anyone. This is her personal matter. Whenever such issues arise, my photos start circulating. Hundreds of people take pictures with me every day, and it is impossible to verify each one. The police have already arrested the accused and are investigating the matter.”
Basavaraj Ambi Denies Any Link with Satish Jarkiholi
Basavaraj Ambi, the kidnapped businessman, has confirmed that his abduction had no connection with Minister Satish Jarkiholi.
Speaking to the media in Rajapur village, Moodalagi taluk, he explained, “That day, I had gone to Sangli to get my car repaired. On my way back to Chikkodi, my car was intercepted, and I was kidnapped. The kidnappers threatened to push my car off a cliff at the Goa Ghat. They then made me call my family, demanding ₹5 crore in ransom. I was moved around Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Goa, with the kidnappers switching vehicles frequently. They also warned me not to inform the police, threatening to kill me. Eventually, I told my wife to arrange the ransom, but the police tracked my location and rescued me.”
Congress Has No Involvement
Manjula Ramaganatti, a resident of Konnur village in Gokak taluk, was arrested in connection with the kidnapping of businessman Basavaraj Ambi. However, the district women’s Congress president, Kalpana Joshi, clarified that the Congress party has no ties to this case.
She stated, “Some media outlets are portraying Manjula Ramaganatti as a Congress worker. I have been the district women’s Congress president for two years, and during this time, she has never held any party position or membership. She has no connection whatsoever with the Congress.”
Not a Congress Worker
Vinay Navalagatti, president of the District Rural Congress Unit, also dismissed any link between Manjula Ramaganatti and the party.
“Thousands of people meet ministers at public events, and many take photographs. That does not mean they are close associates. No one involved in this incident has any ties to the Congress party or its leaders,” he clarified.
