Dakshina Kannada: The State Election Commission (SEC) has cancelled the membership of K. Mohammed Itbal, a member of Bellare Gram Panchayat, who is also an accused in the murder of BJP youth leader Praveen Nettaru and is currently lodged in jail.
According to the order, Itbal failed to file the mandatory declaration of assets and liabilities for the year 2024–25 within the stipulated period. Acting under Section 43(b)(4) of the Karnataka Gram Swaraj and Panchayat Raj Act, 1993, the SEC has declared his seat vacant.
Official communication sent to Panchayat
The SEC has formally notified the Bellare Gram Panchayat regarding the cancellation via an official letter. The seat, which falls under the 1st ward of Bellare Gram Panchayat, will now remain vacant until fresh elections or by-poll procedures are initiated.
Background of the case
K. Mohammed Itbal has been under judicial custody for his alleged involvement in the murder of Praveen Nettaru, a BJP youth leader whose killing in July 2022 triggered widespread protests across Karnataka. The latest SEC order is a separate administrative action unrelated to the ongoing criminal proceedings.