Bengaluru: The Siddaramaiah-led Karnataka government has decided to withdraw as many as 60 criminal cases, a move that has sparked both political interest and controversy. The decision, taken during a cabinet meeting on Thursday, covers a range of cases involving farmers, students, Dalit activists, Kannada organizations, and even incidents of stone-pelting linked to the supporters of Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar and his brother, former MP D.K. Suresh.
Among the cases being withdrawn are those from 2019, when stone-pelting incidents occurred in Chittapur and Kanakapura. The Chittapur episode took place after police seized cattle based on information received from Hindu activists. In Kanakapura, violence broke out after the Enforcement Directorate arrested Shivakumar, following which his supporters were booked for stone-pelting. These cases, now withdrawn, had been pending in the courts.
The government has defended the decision, stating that the withdrawal was prompted by demands from the public, various organizations, and elected representatives. Officials argue that removing such cases would ease the legal burden on individuals and groups who were entangled in prolonged legal battles and help restore a peaceful environment.
The cabinet also approved the withdrawal of older cases involving supporters of Shivakumar and Suresh. One significant case dates back to 2012, when Suresh’s supporters allegedly surrounded the then Chief Minister in protest after being excluded from an event honoring Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. These cases, too, have now been dropped.
In addition to political cases, the list includes disputes linked to farmers’ agitations, Dalit movements, and Kannada language organizations, as well as altercations that occurred during Ganesh Utsav celebrations.
However, the decision has not been without resistance. The Home Department, Director General of Police (DGP), Inspector General of Police (IGP), the Director of Prosecution, and the Law Department had all raised objections. They argued that withdrawing all the cases indiscriminately would not be appropriate. Despite these reservations, the cabinet sub-committee reviewed the matter and presented it to the cabinet, which ultimately approved the withdrawal.
Political observers suggest that the move could invite criticism from the opposition, which may accuse the government of acting under political pressure to protect allies and party workers. Nevertheless, the ruling party maintains that the measure is in the interest of justice and social balance, rather than political expediency.
