Bengaluru: The Karnataka High Court has strongly criticised the Bengaluru Police for registering two criminal cases against a doctor-activist who alerted authorities about the presence of alleged illegal Bangladeshi immigrants in the city, observing that the Election Commission and law enforcement must act fairly and without any appearance of bias.
Justice M. Nagaprasanna, while hearing the matter on July 28, stayed further investigation into the two FIRs filed against Dr Nagendra, observing that the facts of the case prima facie indicated an abuse of the criminal process.
Court questions police action
Dr Nagendra, a doctor and social activist, had informed the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) on July 22 about two persons he alleged were Bangladeshi nationals staying illegally in Bengaluru.
According to submissions before the court, within minutes of the information being shared with the FRRO, one of the alleged immigrants lodged a complaint against the doctor, following which two criminal cases were registered and Dr Nagendra was arrested on July 23. He was released on bail the following day.
The court questioned the speed with which the complaints were acted upon and observed that the police should have first verified the complainant’s status before registering the FIRs.
‘National security cannot be compromised’
During the hearing, Justice Nagaprasanna made strong oral observations on the need to curb illegal immigration, stating that the police should prioritise action against undocumented foreign nationals instead of targeting those who report such cases.
The court also remarked that if individuals were found to be staying in India illegally, authorities should take appropriate action in accordance with the law. It further observed that landlords who knowingly provide accommodation to undocumented foreign nationals should also face legal consequences.
The judge noted that there was no medical evidence produced before the court to immediately substantiate the assault allegations against Dr Nagendra and questioned the circumstances under which the FIRs were registered.
Investigation stayed, FRRO asked to respond
The State government defended the police action, with the Special Public Prosecutor submitting that the alleged Bangladeshi nationals had already been produced before the FRRO and shifted to a detention centre pending further proceedings.
After hearing both sides, the High Court stayed further investigation in both criminal cases against Dr Nagendra until further orders and directed the FRRO to be impleaded as a respondent and clarify the status of the alleged illegal immigrants.
The matter is scheduled for further hearing on August 6, 2026.