Over 10 Threatening VoIP Calls in 8 Hours; Security Stepped Up Around Former Minorities Commission Chief
Mangaluru, Karnataka – April 4: Anwar Manippady, former chairman of the Karnataka State Minorities Commission and a prominent BJP leader, has claimed he received multiple death threats through internet-based calls, prompting serious concerns over his safety.According to Manippady, the threatening calls began late Wednesday and continued into the early hours of Thursday, April 3. Within a span of seven to eight hours, he received more than ten calls in various languages including Hindi, Urdu, Malayalam, and Tulu. One caller, he noted, spoke in "Queen’s English," hinting at possible international involvement due to the caller’s fluency and accent.
“These were not prank calls. The tone and language were clearly meant to intimidate me. They referenced my earlier observations on Waqf properties—remarks that were recently mentioned by Union Home Minister Amit Shah during the Waqf Bill debate in the Lok Sabha. While I considered that an honour, I never expected it would lead to threats to my life,” Manippady stated.
Cybercrime Complaint Filed; Investigation Underway
Following the threats, Manippady filed a complaint with the cybercrime division. Police sources confirmed that a preliminary investigation is in progress. Authorities suspect the calls were made via Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) platforms, a method that complicates caller identification and tracing.Law enforcement officials are actively working to track the digital footprints of the callers. No group has claimed responsibility for the threats so far.
BJP Leaders Condemn Threats; Security Tightened
Senior BJP leaders in Karnataka have strongly condemned the threats and urged authorities to take immediate and decisive action. In response, security around Manippady’s residence has been significantly increased.Manippady, known for his outspoken views on minority issues and his role in the BJP’s outreach in the state, refrained from speculating about who might be behind the threats. However, he emphasized the broader implications of the incident.
“This isn’t just about me. Anyone who speaks their mind or stands for reform should not have to fear for their life,” he said, calling on the authorities to treat the matter with urgency.