The Karnataka High Court granted interim relief to Hindu activist Puneet Kerehalli in cases filed against him in connection with raising concerns about alleged illegal Bangladeshi migrants. A single-judge bench stayed proceedings in one case and directed the police not to take coercive action in another, offering immediate legal protection. The court also sought a response from the state government and posted the matter for further hearing on February 19.
Court questions police on action against illegal migrants
As per TV9 Kannada reports, during the hearing, the High Court strongly questioned the authorities on the steps taken against illegal migrants. The bench asked how cases were being registered even when individuals were allegedly pointing out suspected illegal migrants and directed the government to submit a detailed explanation. The observations placed the spotlight on enforcement, accountability, and the state’s response to the issue.
Mohan Gowda, spokesperson for the Hindu Janajagruti Samithi, welcomed the High Court’s relief to Puneet Kerehalli, calling it a victory for truth and justice. He said the court questioning police action on illegal Bangladeshi infiltrators was a significant development. He also thanked advocates Umashankar, Venkatesh Dalavai, and Nityananda for supporting the activist.
Bannerghatta incident and arrest
The cases stemmed from an incident in Bingipura village under Bannerghatta police limits, where Kerehalli and his team had visited a location after receiving information about suspected Bangladeshi migrants. They reportedly checked the identity documents of migrant workers and shared the information with the police. Following a complaint by the property owner alleging intimidation and threats, police registered a case and arrested Kerehalli late at night. Protests by Hindu activists followed, and he was later granted conditional bail. The High Court has now stayed this case.
Protection in Soladevanahalli case
Another case had been registered under Soladevanahalli police station limits in connection with similar activities aimed at identifying illegal migrants. In this matter, the High Court directed the police not to take any coercive action until further orders, extending additional legal relief to the activist while the case remains under judicial consideration.
Kogilu eviction PIL and rehabilitation concerns
The Court also heard a Public Interest Litigation regarding the demolition of illegal settlements in Kogilu layout and the rehabilitation of displaced residents. The Advocate General informed the Court that documentation for several beneficiaries was missing and that many affected residents were not shifting to rehabilitation centers. Taking note of these concerns, the Court appointed B.V. Vidyullatha as Amicus Curiae and directed the Legal Services Authority to submit a detailed report on rehabilitation and compensation before the next hearing.
Puneet Kerehalli has been actively raising concerns about the presence of suspected illegal immigrants living in Bengaluru for years, claiming to have gathered evidence and repeatedly questioning the authorities about documentation and enforcement. Instead of seriously addressing the issue he highlighted, multiple criminal cases were filed against him, shifting the focus from the allegations he raised to the actions taken against him. This sequence of events raises serious questions about governance and priorities. When individuals who claim to expose illegal immigration face legal action while the larger issue remains unresolved, it reflects poorly on the state’s commitment to enforcement and accountability. The episode has sparked sharp criticism of the Congress government, with many calling it deeply concerning and unfortunate.
