Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India]: BJP leader CT Ravi was granted bail by the Karnataka High Court on Friday following his arrest in a case involving alleged derogatory remarks against Minister Lakshmi Hebbalkar.
The court’s decision was made by a single-judge bench led by Justice MG Uma, who issued an interim order for Ravi’s release. The arrest followed a complaint filed by Karnataka Minister Lakshmi Hebbalkar, which accused Ravi of making offensive remarks during a legislative session.
After his release, CT Ravi said, “Our custodian clearly ruled in my favor, yet a false case was filed against me, and I was treated like a terrorist. Let them introspect their actions. I’m unwell because I didn’t eat properly last night or this morning. This High Court order is a victory for truth and a clear message that we must all follow the law. Despite no proof against me, I was arrested.”
Ravi criticized the Congress-led Siddaramaiah government, accusing it of acting like “dictators” and suppressing opposition voices. “Dictatorship will not last long,” he stated.
Earlier in the day, the Fifth JMFC Court in Belagavi directed Ravi to appear before the Special Court for People’s Representatives in Bengaluru. Police secured a transit warrant to take him into custody.
BJP’s Allegations and Protests
BJP State President Vijayendra condemned the arrest, accusing the police of acting under pressure from the state government. “CT Ravi suffered a severe head injury during his arrest and was denied medical attention and basic necessities. He is not a terrorist; he is a respected MLC and former minister,” Vijayendra asserted.
The BJP announced statewide protests against Ravi’s arrest, with demonstrations erupting in Chikkamagaluru and Belagavi. BJP leaders also called for a bandh in Chikkamagaluru, prompting heavy police deployment in key areas.
Former Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai criticized the arrest, alleging that the Karnataka Police acted without proper procedure. “There is a Police Raj in Karnataka. Investigations should be fair, and truth should prevail,” Bommai said.
The Alleged Remarks and Counterclaims
The controversy began during a legislative session when CT Ravi allegedly referred to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi as a “drug addict.” In response, Lakshmi Hebbalkar reportedly asked Ravi if his involvement in accidents made him a “murderer.” She alleged that Ravi used derogatory language against her, including repeatedly calling her a “prostitute.”
Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar backed Hebbalkar’s claims, saying, “He used that term 12 times. The media should take this seriously. If necessary, I will provide evidence.” Shivakumar also criticized the BJP for supporting Ravi despite his remarks.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah defended the government’s actions, stating, “Women don’t usually file false complaints in such cases. If Ravi’s statements were untrue, why was he arrested? This is a crime, and we acted to ensure public safety.”
Countercomplaints and Political Escalation
In a counter-complaint filed at Khanapura police station, CT Ravi accused Congress leaders, including Hebbalkar and DK Shivakumar, of attempting to harm him. He alleged that he was taken into custody without being informed of the reasons and was denied basic rights during his detention.
With the Karnataka High Court granting Ravi bail, the BJP is expected to escalate its protests against the Congress government in the state.