New Delhi/Bengaluru, April 17 (NationPress) D.K. Shivakumar, Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister and state Congress president, has accused the BJP of orchestrating a conspiracy related to the conviction of Congress MLA Vinay Kulkarni in the murder case of BJP leader and Zilla Panchayat member Yogesh Gowda.

In response to journalists' inquiries at Karnataka Bhavan in New Delhi, Shivakumar stated that Kulkarni had become a victim of this conspiracy and encouraged party members to maintain their resolve.

“Vinay Kulkarni has found himself in a difficult situation due to a BJP conspiracy. He should not lose hope. Such challenges are a part of political life, and he will overcome this,” he expressed.

Shivakumar acknowledged the life sentence handed down by the court, affirming his respect for the judicial system while asserting that Kulkarni was wrongfully accused.

“I respect the judiciary, but this case involves a significant conspiracy. The CBI's investigation during the filing of the B report was marked by harassment. Vinay Kulkarni has been wrongfully implicated as part of this larger scheme,” he stated.

He mentioned that there is a 30-day period to appeal the decision and added that he has consulted with Kulkarni's family regarding the next steps.

“Swearing by the God he believes in, he maintains his innocence. I continue to have faith in him,” Shivakumar said.

He reiterated the necessity of respecting the court's ruling while promising support to Kulkarni's family.

“We must honor the court's decision. I firmly believe he has done nothing wrong. We will support his family morally. Ultimately, the truth will prevail,” he asserted.

Drawing from his own experiences, Shivakumar remarked that he has also faced conspiracies but ultimately received justice from the Supreme Court.

“In the end, I was vindicated by the Supreme Court. I am confident that justice will be served in higher courts in this instance as well,” he indicated.

When probed about the individuals behind the alleged conspiracy, Shivakumar stated he would address it at a more suitable time, while questioning the circumstances under which the case was assigned to the CBI.

“Former Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa has claimed he predicted this outcome — how was that known beforehand? BJP leaders have conspired against a rising political figure in North Karnataka,” he alleged.

It is noteworthy that a Special Court for MLAs/MPs in Bengaluru sentenced Vinay Kulkarni and 16 other defendants to double life imprisonment for their involvement in the murder of Yogesh Gowda.

The court imposed life sentences for both criminal conspiracy and murder, with sentences to run concurrently.

Additionally, the court mandated a compensation payment of Rs 16 lakh to the victim's family and a total fine of Rs 12.50 lakh on the defendants. The first accused, Basavaraja Muttagi, has been recognized as an approver in the case.

Judge Santhosh Gajanana Bhat delivered the verdict, which ensures that Kulkarni, aged 57, will spend the rest of his life behind bars.

The court also sentenced accused No. 19, Channakeshava Tingarikar, a circle inspector, to seven years of imprisonment for evidence tampering.