Karnataka bjp mla munirathna Arrested for Death Threats and Casteist Abuse

BJP mla munirathna was arrested on saturday following accusations of harassment, threats, and casteist abuse. The arrest came after two FIRs were lodged against him.

“We have taken him into custody. He was detained in Kolar and brought to Bengaluru, where he was formally arrested in connection with the cases filed against him,” a senior police officer stated.

Munirathna's lawyer, Advocate Sadananda, denied the allegations, claiming they are unfounded and lacking evidence. “We will approach the high court and file a counter-complaint against the accusers. The truth will be revealed,” he told reporters. The FIRs were filed at the Vyalikaval police station on Friday.

Munirathna was first taken to Bowring Hospital for a medical checkup before being taken to the police station. Supporters of the mla also gathered at the Vyalikaval police station.

In response to the charges, the state bjp issued a showcause notice to Munirathna, demanding an explanation before a disciplinary committee within five days, citing violations of party discipline.

BJP leaders, including Union minister Prahlad Joshi and leader of Opposition R. Ashoka, criticized the “hasty” arrest as politically motivated and premeditated, asserting that proper action should be taken only if munirathna is found guilty.

The first FIR was filed by BBMP contractor Cheluvaraju, who accused munirathna of demanding a Rs 30 lakh bribe and threatening to terminate his contract if he did not comply. Cheluvaraju alleged that munirathna had initially requested Rs 20 lakh in 2021 for a solid waste disposal contract. Despite paying this amount, Cheluvaraju did not receive the promised auto trippers for waste management. According to the FIR, munirathna allegedly harassed Cheluvaraju, used verbal abuse, and physically assaulted him, including an incident in september 2023.

The FIR also names three other individuals, including government officials, who are accused of threatening, abusing, and harassing the contractor. Cheluvaraju claimed that the harassment led him to contemplate suicide.

The contractor has released an audio recording of a phone conversation with Munirathna, which is purportedly related to the accusations.

The second FIR, lodged by a BBMP corporator, alleges that munirathna used casteist language, insulting the corporator's caste and family. munirathna allegedly instructed Cheluvaraju, the contractor and complainant in the first case, to cease his involvement.
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Balasahana Suresh

15/09/2024 12:56 PM