Supreme Court Denies Bail to BJP MLA Basavaraj, CID to Arrest Him at Airport

Supreme Court Declines Anticipatory Bail to BJP MLA Byrathi Basavaraj; CID Set to Arrest Him

The Supreme Court on Thursday refused to entertain the anticipatory bail plea of Karnataka BJP MLA Byrathi Basavaraj in connection with the July 15 murder of realtor Shivaprakash, alias Biklu Shiva, delivering a significant setback to the legislator.

A bench comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi observed that as a public servant, Basavaraj should be “courageous enough” to face the legal process. The court indicated that he may apply for regular bail after surrendering or being taken into custody.

CID Team at Airport

Following the apex court’s refusal, Basavaraj — who had reportedly been in Gujarat after the Karnataka High Court denied him anticipatory bail on February 10 — is expected to return to Bengaluru. A team of Criminal Investigation Department (CID) officials has reached Kempegowda International Airport and is likely to take him into custody upon arrival.

The CID had earlier issued a lookout circular to prevent him from leaving the country as the investigation progressed.

High Court Order and Interim Protection

The Supreme Court’s stance comes after the Karnataka High Court rejected Basavaraj’s anticipatory bail plea and vacated interim protection granted by a vacation bench. The High Court noted that custodial interrogation could be necessary given the gravity of the allegations and the potential impact of his political position on the probe.

Murder Case and Allegations

Shivaprakash, known as Biklu Shiva, was shot dead outside his residence in Bengaluru, allegedly in connection with a property dispute.

Basavaraj has been named as the fifth accused in the FIR. Investigators have cited call detail records and other material that they claim indicate links between him and key accused persons. During the hearing before the Supreme Court, his counsel argued that he had no connection with the prime accused, but the bench referred to allegations of conspiracy and material suggesting association with other accused individuals.

What Happens Next

With anticipatory bail denied, Basavaraj now faces imminent arrest. The Supreme Court clarified that its refusal does not prevent him from seeking regular bail after he is taken into custody.