Court Blocks Karnataka's Plan to Withdraw High-Profile Cases

The Karnataka government assured the High Court it would not withdraw prosecution in pending criminal cases with influential individuals until further hearing on April 8. This follows a PIL challenging the withdrawal of 43 cases under Section 321 of the CrPC, which critics claim favors influential figures.

The Karnataka government has promised the High Court it will refrain from withdrawing prosecutions in pending criminal cases involving influential figures until April 8. This assurance came during a hearing on a Public Interest Litigation challenging the withdrawal of 43 cases under Section 321 of the Criminal Procedure Code.

The PIL, filed by activist Girish Bharadwaj, argues that a government directive to public prosecutors to withdraw cases, including serious charges like rioting and attempted murder, violates legal provisions and serves the interests of politically powerful individuals. A division bench concurred, noting undue governmental influence and a potential legal overreach.

The High Court responded by scheduling a further hearing on April 8. It emphasized that the discretion to withdraw cases rests with the public prosecutor and not the government. The court has issued notices and is closely scrutinizing the ongoing proceedings to ensure legal integrity.

(With inputs from agencies.)