Karnataka Right-Wing Activist Puneeth Kerehalli Faces Second Arrest in a Month, Granted Bail
In a significant development from Bengaluru, right-wing activist Puneeth Kerehalli has been arrested for the second time within a single month, only to be released on bail shortly afterward. The arrest, which occurred early on Friday, is connected to an ongoing assault and obstruction case that dates back to July of last year.
Details of the Latest Arrest and Case Background
The Bagalagunta police in Bengaluru took Kerehalli into custody based on a local court-issued warrant dated January 21, 2026. This warrant was pending against him in relation to an assault case registered on July 20, 2025. According to police officials, Kerehalli had repeatedly failed to appear for questioning despite receiving multiple notices, leading to his arrest near the Soladevanahalli police station.
Interestingly, Kerehalli was reportedly at the police station to file a complaint alleging that a man was an illegal Bangladeshi immigrant when he was apprehended. The police acted on the warrant, citing his continued non-cooperation as a key factor in the arrest.
Incident Leading to the Assault Case
The case stems from a complaint filed by Allabakash, a 30-year-old driver residing in Bengaluru. According to his account, on the night of July 1, 2025, he and his colleague Fazil Khan were instructed by a neighbour named Adeer to transport meat from Chennaraya town to Shivajinagar in a car.
While traveling on the Tumakuru–Bengaluru NH-4 near the T Dasarahalli flyover, their vehicle was allegedly intercepted by a red car. Kerehalli and his associates reportedly blocked the road, questioned the consignment, and assaulted Allabakash. The complainant stated that one of the accused struck him on the face with a key, causing bleeding injuries.
A case has been registered against Kerehalli and three to four unidentified associates in connection with this incident.
Kerehalli's Criminal History and Previous Arrest
Police have highlighted that Puneeth Kerehalli has a substantial criminal history, including cases related to illegal cow smuggling, murder, and other offences. This background adds context to his repeated encounters with law enforcement.
Earlier this month, on January 16, Kerehalli was arrested by the Bannerghatta police for allegedly trespassing into migrant workers' homes. During that incident, he and his team demanded identity documents and harassed residents, accusing them of being illegal immigrants.
This previous arrest followed a series of visits by Kerehalli's team to settlement areas in Electronic City, Hebbagodi, and surrounding regions. They filmed videos claiming that illegal immigrants were living in these areas, and the footage later went viral on social media platforms.
Legal Proceedings and Current Status
Following his latest arrest, Puneeth Kerehalli was released on bail, as confirmed by police officials on Saturday. The case continues to unfold, with investigations ongoing into the assault and obstruction allegations linked to the alleged illegal transportation of meat.
The repeated arrests within a short timeframe underscore the activist's contentious activities and the legal challenges he faces in Karnataka. Authorities remain vigilant, monitoring his actions and ensuring compliance with judicial processes.
