Bengaluru, April 16 (NationPress) The Special Court for MLAs/MPs in Bengaluru concluded the proceedings for final statements regarding the sentencing in the murder case of BJP leader Yogesh Gowda on Thursday, with the verdict set to be announced on Friday.

The concluding arguments from both the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the defense for convicted Congress MLA Vinay Kulkarni were completed. Judge Santosh Gajanana Bhat then adjourned the session, awaiting the verdict against Kulkarni and 16 co-defendants.

Emotional moments unfolded at the court as family members of the convicted individuals gathered, many in tears throughout the proceedings. Some convicts, including Kulkarni, were observed comforting their relatives while sharing in their grief.

Notably, the Special Court for MLAs/MPs in Bengaluru had previously declared senior Congress MLA and former Minister Vinay Kulkarni guilty in the murder of BJP leader and Zilla Panchayat member Yogesh Gowda.

This verdict follows an extensive trial where Kulkarni was designated as accused number 15. He currently holds the position of Chairman of the Karnataka Urban Water Supply and Drainage Board and was found guilty of engaging in a criminal conspiracy.

During his arguments, Additional Solicitor General (ASG) V. Raju urged for the most severe punishment, emphasizing that the accused had plotted and executed a premeditated murder. He highlighted that the deceased, Yogesh Gowda, was targeted due to political conflict.

ASG Raju pointed out that while others initially surrendered to the police regarding the case, the true circumstances only became evident through the CBI investigation.

He argued that the accused, a legislator meant to uphold the law, instead orchestrated the murder, misusing police resources and undermining constitutional values.

Furthermore, he recounted the brutal manner of Yogesh Gowda's murder, where chilli powder was used against him, and evidence was tampered with. He accused the defendants of exploiting their positions as a legislator and minister, manipulating the system.

Convicted MLA Vinay Kulkarni, addressing the Special Court, insisted that he has dedicated 26 years to politics without harming anyone. He expressed concern for his family, mentioning his two daughters of marriageable age and a son. He noted his background as an agriculturist caring for a herd of 3,500 cows, asserting he has not troubled anyone in his constituency.

Senior counsel Shyam Sundar, representing the accused, argued that a life sentence would be the most severe penalty, equating it to a death sentence. He requested a sentence that allows room for reformation, noting Kulkarni's position as an elected representative who manages over 3,000 cows and is also involved in industry.

Sundar further stated that thousands of constituents have placed their faith in Kulkarni, and these factors should be considered in determining the punishment, reflecting his positive character.