Karnataka High Court Directs Government to Detail Measures Against Illegal Immigrants in Bengaluru
The Karnataka High Court has granted interim protection to activist Puneeth Kerehalli in two criminal cases, while simultaneously issuing a significant directive to the state government. The court has ordered the government to place on record the specific measures taken to identify and act against illegal immigrants residing in Bengaluru.
Court Proceedings and Interim Protection
Justice M Nagaprasanna issued these directions while hearing petitions filed by Kerehalli challenging cases booked by the Soladevanahalli police in Bengaluru Rural district. The court explicitly ordered that no coercive action should be taken against the petitioner until the next scheduled hearing date.
During the proceedings, the additional special public prosecutor informed the court that the actions of Kerehalli and his associates during the incident in question were recorded on video. The prosecution confirmed that these recordings would be produced before the court as evidence.
Government Directed to Report on Illegal Immigrant Measures
In a notable development, Justice Nagaprasanna further instructed the prosecution to submit a comprehensive report detailing the steps initiated by the government to address the presence of illegal immigrants in Bengaluru. According to the state's own estimates, this population is close to 20 lakh individuals.
The court order specifically stated: "The additional special public prosecutor shall also place on record the steps taken towards clearing illegal immigrants in the city." The matter has been listed for further consideration on February 20.
Background of the Criminal Cases
The cases stem from an episode in which Puneeth Kerehalli and a group of supporters allegedly visited a settlement at Kemapapura, near Soladevanahalli. The group claimed that several Bangladeshi nationals were living in the locality without valid documentation.
According to police reports, the activist and others later made false statements on social media platforms, including remarks directed at the Director General and Inspector General of Police. The group faces multiple accusations including:
- Criminal conspiracy
- Unlawful assembly
- Rioting
- Spreading misinformation
The authorities have invoked various provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Samhita against Kerehalli and his associates in connection with these allegations.
The court's dual approach of providing interim protection while demanding accountability on immigration enforcement creates a significant legal precedent in matters involving activist cases and government action on illegal immigration.
