"I am also Gouri" say protesters

Bengaluru: Bengaluru spoke in outrage today over the murder of Gauri Lankesh, a senior journalist and activist who was killed last night outside her residence. Journalist from all over the country deeply condemned the act and expressed concern over the same.

Bengaluruians were worried that Ms Lankesh’s shooting at point-blank range was in retaliation to her anti-establishment voice, her criticism of those in power ignoring those on the margins.

The police have reportedly spotted one of three killers on CCTVs that were installed at Ms Lankesh’s house in the western part of the IT hub. The suspect is seen wearing a helmet, said police sources, adding that three teams have been formed to identify and track down the killers, who were likely paid assassins.

At a condolence meeting held in the heart of Bengaluru, some attendees carried posters saying, “Namma Gauri” (I Am Gauri).

Journalists in different cities have organised meetings today and protest marches against her murder.

Various protests are as scheduled:

• Ahmedabad: 4:00 pm, Laldarwaja, Sadar Baug
• Hyderabad: 4 pm, Sunderayya Vignana Kendram
• Pune: 4 pm, opposite SP College, Sadashiv Peth, Tilak Road
• Mangalore: 4 pm, Town Hall, Gandhi Statue
• Mumbai: 6 pm, Amphitheatre, Carter Road

Mortal remains were brought to the Ravindra Kala Kshethra here where family members and friends gathered to pay tribute.