'Tried to unite religions, will stand by Arjun's family even if convicted', says Manaf

KOZHIKODE: Manaf, the owner of the lorry involved in the incident with Arjun, has denied allegations of attempting to incite religious rivalry. In an emotional response to the media, Manaf stated that he is committed to his family and will continue to support them even if he faces punishment.

"I am working to unite religions, not divide them," Manaf said during his statement. "I have not intentionally wronged Arjun's family and even apologized at the press conference yesterday. I urged everyone to refrain from making negative comments or launching cyber attacks against them. I have done everything I could to support that family. Even if I am convicted, I will stand by them. My only hope was to bring peace to their lives after finding Arjun, but that peace hasn’t come."

Manaf is currently facing accusations stemming from a police complaint filed by Arjun's family, who allege that he instigated a social media cyber-attack against them. The police have also charged him with attempting to disturb public harmony. Authorities plan to record statements from Arjun's family as part of the investigation, with the police vowing to take strict action against those responsible. The investigation team is also set to examine social media accounts linked to the case.

Earlier, Arjun's wife, Krishna Priya, along with his sister Anju and brother-in-law Jithin, filed a formal complaint with the City Police Commissioner, reporting communal abuse directed at their family on social media. The family had held a press conference on Wednesday, accusing Manaf of manipulating their emotions.