“Karnataka High Court Grants Interim Relief to BS Yediyurappa in POCSO Case, Exempts Personal Appearance”
Former Karnataka Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa breathes a sigh of relief as the court provides interim relief in a high-profile case.
Bengaluru, Karnataka: In a significant development, the Karnataka High Court has granted interim relief to former Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa in a case registered under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. The court has also exempted him from personal appearance during the trial, providing a temporary reprieve to the veteran politician.
The case, filed by the CID police, alleges that Yediyurappa was involved in the sexual assault of a minor. However, the High Court, after hearing arguments from both sides, has stayed the cognizance of the chargesheet and issued an order exempting Yediyurappa and other accused from appearing in person during the proceedings.
Court’s Decision and Legal Arguments
The bench, headed by Justice Pradeep Singh Yerur, was hearing separate petitions filed by Yediyurappa and three others—YM Arun, Rudresh Maralusiddaiah, and G Mariswamy—seeking the quashing of the cognizance order and summons issued by the special court. The court, after considering the arguments, ruled in favor of the petitioners, granting them relief from personal appearance until further orders.
The court noted that the special court had already stayed the proceedings in the POCSO case against Yediyurappa and others. It further stated that all petitioners would be exempt from personal appearance during the trial until further notice.
Defense’s Stand: Allegations Lack Merit
Representing Yediyurappa, his legal team argued that the allegations were baseless and filed with malintent. They highlighted that the complaint was registered 12 days after the alleged incident, raising questions about its credibility. The defense also pointed out that the chargesheet lacked substantial evidence under Sections 204 and 214 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).
“The statements of the victim and the complainant are not consistent with the truth. The special court had earlier stayed the proceedings, and there are glaring loopholes in the cognizance taken by the lower court. We requested the High Court to stay the proceedings until this petition is resolved,” said Yediyurappa’s counsel.
State’s Opposition: Strong Evidence Exists
Opposing the petitions, Advocate General K Shashikiran Shetty, representing the state government, argued that there was sufficient evidence to proceed with the trial. He emphasized that the court had not granted a stay in the earlier petition filed by Yediyurappa and others, and only interim arrangements were made.
“This is not a case for interim relief. There is ample evidence before the court to proceed with the trial. Granting a stay at this stage would hinder the prosecution’s case. The FIR and chargesheet remain valid, and the court should allow the trial to continue,” Shetty argued.
What’s Next?
The High Court’s decision has provided temporary relief to Yediyurappa and the other accused, but the legal battle is far from over. The special court will continue to examine the evidence, and the next hearing is expected to shed more light on the case.
This development has sparked widespread discussions in political and legal circles, with many closely watching how the case unfolds. For now, Yediyurappa and his co-accused can focus on their defense without the immediate pressure of personal appearances in court.
As the case progresses, all eyes remain on the judiciary to deliver justice while ensuring a fair trial for all parties involved.
Statements:
- From BS Yediyurappa’s Legal Team:
“The allegations against our client are baseless and lack any substantial evidence. We welcome the High Court’s decision to grant interim relief and stay the cognizance of the chargesheet. This is a step toward ensuring justice.” - From Advocate General K Shashikiran Shetty (Representing the State):
“The state has presented sufficient evidence to proceed with the trial. Granting a stay at this stage could hinder the prosecution’s case. We are confident that the truth will prevail.” - From the Karnataka High Court:
“Considering the arguments presented, the court has decided to grant interim relief to the petitioners, exempting them from personal appearance until further orders. The cognizance of the chargesheet is stayed for now.”
Q & A:
Q: What is the current status of the POCSO case against BS Yediyurappa?
A: The Karnataka High Court has granted interim relief to Yediyurappa, staying the cognizance of the chargesheet and exempting him from personal appearance during the trial until further orders.
Q: What are the allegations against Yediyurappa?
A: He is accused of sexually assaulting a minor, as per a complaint filed under the POCSO Act. The CID police investigated the case and filed a chargesheet against him.
Q: What was the defense’s argument in court?
A: Yediyurappa’s legal team argued that the allegations are baseless, the complaint was filed 12 days after the alleged incident, and there is no substantial evidence to support the charges.
Q: What is the state government’s stance on the case?
A: The state, represented by Advocate General K Shashikiran Shetty, opposed the petition, stating that there is sufficient evidence to proceed with the trial and that granting a stay would hinder the prosecution’s case.
Q: What happens next in the case?
A: The special court will continue to examine the evidence, and the next hearing will determine the future course of action. The High Court’s interim relief allows Yediyurappa and other accused to avoid personal appearances for now.
Q: How has this case impacted Karnataka’s political landscape?
A: The case has sparked significant political debate, with many viewing it as a high-profile legal battle that could influence public opinion and the state’s political dynamics.
