Udupi: The trial of Praveen Chowgule, accused in the high-profile Nejar quadruple murder case, has been delayed due to the transfer of Judge Dinesh Hegde from the Second Additional Sessions Court.
The hearing, previously scheduled for June 13th to 15th, had to be adjourned as the court awaits the arrival of a new judge. Chowgule, currently held in Parappa Agrahara Jail, appeared before the in-charge judge, Srinivasa Suvarna, via video conference.
The recent transfer of five judges, including former District Chief Judge Shanta Veera Shivappa and Judge Dinesh Hegde, has created a vacancy in the Second Additional Sessions Court. While a replacement has been appointed for the Chief Judge’s position, the court handling Chowgule’s case remains without a designated judge.
This unexpected turn of events is likely to cause significant delays in the trial. The new judge will need time to familiarize themselves with the case details before proceedings can resume.
Background:
The Nejar quadruple murder case sent shockwaves through the state when it occurred on November 12, 2023. Praveen Chowgule is accused of killing four people and seriously injuring another. After a period of hiding, he was apprehended by the police. The trial was progressing at a steady pace under Judge Dinesh Hegde before his transfer to Bangalore.
