A controversy has erupted in Karnataka after a Bengaluru court issued a non-bailable warrant against former Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa in connection with a case under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has accused the Congress-led state government of pursuing “politics of vendetta” in retaliation for legal actions against Rahul Gandhi.
The case dates back to February 2, when a complaint was lodged accusing BS Yediyurappa of sexually harassing a minor during a meeting at his residence in Dollars Colony. The Special Court’s warrant comes after months of investigation, with allegations surfacing in March and the registration of the case by Sadashivanagar police.
Reacting strongly to the developments, former BJP national General Secretary CT Ravi criticized the timing of the warrant, suggesting it was a deliberate move to coincide with legal challenges faced by Congress leaders. “This sudden action after four months raises questions about the timing and intent behind targeting BS Yediyurappa,” CT Ravi stated, alleging a Congress-led conspiracy influenced by political vendetta.
CT Ravi further highlighted discrepancies in the handling of the case, emphasizing that BS Yediyurappa had cooperated with authorities by providing his statement at his residence as per police instructions. He underscored the BJP’s commitment to respecting the court’s decision while questioning the procedural fairness and timing of the warrant issuance.
Echoing CT Ravi’s sentiments, BJP MLC N. Ravikumar accused the Congress of politicizing the legal process to settle scores, asserting that the complainant’s history of filing numerous cases against public figures raised doubts about the veracity of the allegations. He criticized the government for suddenly prioritizing the case after months of inaction, calling the warrant “condemnable” and politically motivated.
In response, Karnataka’s Home Minister G. Parameshwara defended the warrant, stating that due process would be followed to ensure justice. “The police will execute the warrant as per legal requirements, and BS Yediyurappa is expected to comply,” Parameshwara affirmed, noting that investigative procedures, including the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) report, are still pending.
Meanwhile, the BJP has sought clarity on the case’s progress and reiterated its stance against what it perceives as selective enforcement by the state government. BS Yediyurappa, through his legal counsel, has moved to quash the FIR and expressed readiness to cooperate with authorities.
The unfolding controversy underscores heightened political tensions in Karnataka, with legal battles intertwining with electoral rivalries. As the case progresses, stakeholders await further developments while navigating the complex intersection of law, politics, and public perception.
