New Delhi: The Supreme Court of India granted bail to Congress MLA Vinay Kulkarni in connection with the murder of Zilla Panchayat member Yogesh Gowda. The order was passed by a bench headed by Justice Sanjay Karol.
Kulkarni, who represents the Dharwad Rural constituency in Karnataka, had approached the apex court to challenge the earlier cancellation of his bail. The court’s latest order grants him relief in the high-profile murder case that has been under investigation for several years.
Earlier Bail Cancelled on CBI Plea
The Central Bureau of Investigation had previously moved the Supreme Court seeking cancellation of Kulkarni’s bail, alleging that he had threatened witnesses in the case. Acting on the agency’s plea, the top court had cancelled his earlier bail and directed him to surrender.
Following the cancellation order, Kulkarni had surrendered before a special court designated for elected representatives. Subsequently, he filed an appeal before the Supreme Court challenging the decision to revoke his bail.
After hearing the matter, the bench headed by Justice Sanjay Karol granted bail, providing temporary relief to the Congress leader. Detailed conditions imposed by the court were not immediately available.
Background of the Murder Case
Yogesh Gowda, a Zilla Panchayat member, was murdered on June 15, 2016, within the jurisdiction of Dharwad Suburban Police Station in Karnataka. The case was later handed over to the Central Bureau of Investigation, which conducted a detailed probe and filed a chargesheet before the special court.
The matter continues to be heard before the trial court, while the Supreme Court’s latest decision marks a significant development in the legal proceedings.
