Is K’taka Police Pursuing BJP MLA Byrathi Basavaraj in Rowdy-Sheeter Murder Case?
Synopsis
In a shocking turn of events, Karnataka Police are on the trail of BJP MLA Byrathi Basavaraj linked to a rowdy-sheeter murder. As the investigation unfolds, legal actions are set to escalate, stirring political tensions in the region.
Key Takeaways
Karnataka Police intensifying the search for Byrathi Basavaraj.
Lookout notice issued to prevent fleeing.
Basavaraj is accused in a high-profile murder case.
Legal actions are anticipated as the investigation progresses.
Political tensions rise amid ongoing investigations.
Bengaluru, Dec 24 (NationPress) The Karnataka Police are actively searching for former minister and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA Byrathi Basavaraj in relation to a murder case involving a rowdy-sheeter.
The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has issued a lookout notice for his apprehension.
In response to this development, Home Minister G. Parameshwara stated that legal proceedings would commence in this matter.
While addressing the media in Bengaluru, Parameshwara commented on the lookout notice against the BJP MLA, stating, "We cannot instruct the CID on how to conduct their investigation. The CID will act in accordance with legal protocols."
According to police sources, the lookout notice was issued to prevent Byrathi Basavaraj from escaping the country. Currently, the MLA is on the run, and the CID has been unsuccessful in reaching him.
Basavaraj has been untraceable for the last five days, prompting three specialized teams to conduct search operations in Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Goa.
He faces murder charges and is identified as the fifth accused in the killing of Shivaprakash alias Biklu Shiva, who was brutally murdered outside his home in July 2025.
The victim's mother, Vijayalaxmi, filed the FIR at the Bharatinagar Police Station in Bengaluru.
In response to the allegations, Basavaraj has denied any involvement in the case.
He represents the K.R. Puram Assembly constituency in Bengaluru and was previously a close associate of Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah before his switch to the BJP.
The Special Court for MLAs and MPs in Bengaluru rejected Basavaraj's bail application regarding the rowdy-sheeter murder case, making his arrest imminent.
Senior counsel Ashok Naik, representing the CID, informed the Special Court that despite being aware of the Karnataka High Court's ruling, the accused MLA has been evading authorities since December 18.
"The accused, including MLA Basavaraj, conspired to commit the murder. The primary suspect, Jagadish, maintained contact with MLA Byrathi Basavaraj. Evidence was presented indicating that the primary suspect and MLA Basavaraj traveled together to the Kumbh Mela. Basavaraj had a dispute with the deceased regarding temple land. Although Basavaraj is engaged in real estate, he has not been visibly active," Naik stated.
Furthermore, he mentioned that Basavaraj's close associates were involved in the land dispute with the victim.
"The primary suspect allegedly informed MLA Basavaraj about the murder incident and then fled abroad, as indicated by tower location data," he added.
In opposition to the CID's arguments, Basavaraj's counsel noted that five months and ten days had elapsed since the incident.
"The investigation agency has remained inactive for five months and is now seeking custodial interrogation," he argued.
He also pointed out that a charge sheet had been filed against 18 individuals, with seven to eight being unfamiliar with the murder, yet MLA Basavaraj is still referred to as the fifth accused.
He concluded by stating that after the case's transfer to the CID, no summons were issued to MLA Basavaraj.
Point of View
It is crucial to provide an unbiased perspective on this developing story. The pursuit of justice in the Byrathi Basavaraj case highlights the complexity of political accountability in Karnataka. While the investigation unfolds, we must remain vigilant in reporting facts and ensuring transparency in the process.
NationPress
12 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the lookout notice against Byrathi Basavaraj?
The lookout notice was issued by the CID to prevent him from fleeing the country amid murder charges related to the killing of Shivaprakash.
What are the charges against Basavaraj?
Byrathi Basavaraj is charged with murder and is named as the fifth accused in the killing of a rowdy-sheeter.
What actions have been taken by the Karnataka Police?
The Karnataka Police, along with the CID, are conducting search operations across various states to locate Basavaraj, who has been absconding.
What has been the political response to this case?
Home Minister G. Parameshwara has indicated that legal actions will be initiated, emphasizing that the investigation will follow due process.
How has Basavaraj responded to the allegations?
Basavaraj has denied any connection to the murder case, asserting his innocence.
