Udupi, Karnataka: On August 23, the Udupi district court granted conditional bail to activist Mahesh Shetty Timarodi, who had been lodged in Hiriyadka Jail for allegedly making derogatory remarks against BJP National Organising Secretary B.L. Santosh.
Timarodi was produced before the court at 4.00 pm after completing three hours of police custody. Judge Nagesh N.A. approved the bail order after hearing arguments from defence counsel Vijaya Vasu Poojary and the Assistant Government Prosecutor.
Defence arguments
Advocate Vijaya Vasu Poojary contended that the arrest procedure had been irregular and that a second notice had been served before the expiry of the first. He further argued that no communal disturbances arose from Timarodi’s alleged remarks and emphasised that the activist, being a Hindu leader, had not targeted any other religion.
The defence also cited previous legal precedents, including the Saujanya and Elephant Keeper cases, to argue that continued detention was unwarranted.
Court’s decision
Acknowledging these points, Judge Nagesh N.A. granted bail with specific conditions to ensure compliance with ongoing legal proceedings. The details of these conditions are expected to be formally documented in court records.
Conclusion
The case has drawn significant attention in Udupi and neighbouring districts. With bail granted, legal proceedings are set to continue, with further hearings likely to determine the next course of action.