The Karnataka High Court on Thursday stayed the operation of the State government’s decision to withdraw 52 criminal cases registered against politicians, pro-Kannada activists, farmers’ leaders and social activists, including cases arising out of the Ladle Mashak Dargah violence in Kalaburagi district.
A Division Bench comprising Chief Justice Vibhu Bakhru and Justice K.S. Hemalekha passed the interim order while hearing a public interest litigation challenging the State government’s May 27, 2026 decision to withdraw the prosecutions.
The Bench directed that the government’s order would remain inoperative until further orders and granted the State time to file its response. The matter has been listed for further hearing on September 28.
Petitioner Challenges Withdrawal Of Cases
Appearing for the petitioner, advocate Venkatesh Dalawai argued that the decision to withdraw the criminal cases had been taken on the recommendations of three senior ministers. He further contended that the move was inconsistent with a Karnataka High Court order passed in 2025 dealing with a similar issue.
On behalf of the State, Additional Advocate General Taranath Poojary sought time to file objections to the petition.
Court Issues Notices To State Departments
The High Court issued notices to the Home Department and the Department of Prosecution and Government Litigation, directing the State to place its objections on record before the next hearing.
Bench Declines To Issue Notice To Minister
The Bench refused to issue notice to Health Minister U.T. Khader, who had been arrayed as the third respondent in the PIL.
The court observed that statements made by legislators on the floor of the House are protected by legal privilege and cannot, by themselves, justify impleading a legislator as a respondent in such proceedings.
Although the petitioner’s counsel sought to defend the minister’s inclusion in the case, the Bench declined the request.
