Bengaluru: In a sensational development that has rocked Karnataka politics, the CBI investigation into the murder of Yogesh Gowda has uncovered critical evidence leading to life imprisonment for former minister Vinay Kulkarni and 16 others, exposing a deeper conspiracy and serious flaws in the initial probe.
Secret SIM, 94 Calls Strengthen Conspiracy Angle
According to investigation sources, Vinay Kulkarni allegedly used a SIM card purchased in his wife’s name to maintain contact with prime accused Basavaraj Muttagi (A1).
Investigators found that Kulkarni reportedly spoke to Muttagi 94 times, and even after the murder, 57 calls were made within six months. In at least six instances, both were present at the same location, strengthening the conspiracy angle.
“The communication trail became one of the strongest links in exposing the conspiracy.”
Election Victory Linked to Murder Motive
CBI findings indicated that Yogesh Gowda’s Zilla Panchayat election victory allegedly triggered the murder plot. Basavaraj Muttagi and his relative Chandrashekhar Indige were reportedly assigned to execute the plan.
The case took a major turn when Muttagi turned approver, significantly strengthening the prosecution and tightening the case against Kulkarni.
CCTV Evidence Exposes Probe Lapses
A major breakthrough came through CCTV footage, which allegedly showed multiple accused (A7 to A14) actively participating in the attack with weapons.
However, in the initial investigation, Dharwad police had arrested only A1 to A6 and claimed weapon recovery, attributing the motive to a land dispute. The CBI later challenged these claims, exposing inconsistencies and gaps in the original probe.
Vinay Kulkarni Lodged in Parappana Agrahara Jail
Following the verdict by the Special Court for MPs and MLAs, Vinay Kulkarni has been lodged in Parappana Agrahara Central Prison, Bengaluru.
Sources revealed that he appeared disturbed and withdrawn, reportedly sitting alone for long hours and refusing food despite being served regular meals like ragi mudde, chapati, rice, and sambar.
Assigned Prisoner Number
In a significant update, jail authorities have allotted punishment numbers to all convicts.
