Udupi: Civil rights activist Mahesh Shetty Timarodi has been remanded to 14 days of judicial custody after his bail application was rejected by the Brahmavar Taluk Circuit Court.
Arrest over derogatory remarks
Timarodi was arrested by Brahmavar police on Thursday following allegations that he made derogatory statements against BJP National Organising Secretary B.L. Santosh. BJP leaders had lodged a formal complaint, prompting the police to serve two notices to the activist, which he reportedly ignored.
Court rejects bail application
After his arrest, Timarodi was questioned for nearly two hours before being produced in court. His lawyer’s bail application was denied, and the bench ordered that he be placed in judicial custody until the next hearing, scheduled for 23 August 2025.
Legal proceedings and next steps
Following the court order, police officials confirmed that Timarodi would not be transferred to Hiriyadaka Jail immediately. Legal experts suggest that his legal team may approach a higher court for relief in the coming days.
Political tensions rise
The arrest has drawn attention across political circles in Udupi and beyond. Supporters of Timarodi have alleged that the case is politically motivated, while BJP leaders maintain that derogatory remarks against senior party leaders cannot be tolerated.
Conclusion
With the next court hearing set for August 23, the case is expected to remain in focus, especially as debates over freedom of speech and political criticism continue in Karnataka’s coastal region.