Bengaluru, Nov 13 (NationPress) - The Karnataka Police took a significant step on Thursday by arresting a BJP leader, who is facing accusations of making a derogatory statement linked to the alleged extravagant treatment provided to terrorists and notorious criminals within the Bengaluru Central Prison.

A troubling series of videos have come to light, depicting suspected ISIS terrorists, a serial rapist-murderer, and other infamous inmates enjoying access to mobile phones, televisions, and even liquor within the prison, igniting a major uproar in the state.

The BJP leader in question is identified as Santosh Kotyan, the President of the Chikkamagaluru District BJP Yuva Morcha. Following a complaint lodged by Congress workers, he was accused of using offensive language against Home Minister G. Parameshwara during a protest where he condemned the alleged lavish treatment of prisoners at Bengaluru Central Prison.

In response to the complaint, police acted swiftly and apprehended Kotyan, who has now been remanded to 15 days of judicial custody.

While protesting on Wednesday, Kotyan remarked, “Whatever happens in the state, the Home Minister claims he doesn’t know anything, implying that Parameshwara has transformed into a daughter.” This statement incited outrage among Congress workers, prompting them to file a formal complaint.

During the arrest, tensions escalated on Market Road in Chikkamagaluru. As police were escorting Santosh Kotyan to a police vehicle, BJP supporters attempted to obstruct the process, leading to a verbal clash and a brief scuffle with law enforcement. Following his arrest, BJP supporters organized a protest outside the local police station, prompting increased security measures in the area.

Previously, videos surfaced showing the VIP treatment afforded to infamous criminals like Umesh Reddy, a notorious rapist and serial killer, as well as associates of gold smuggling suspect Ranya Rao. The videos, which went viral on social media, raised serious concerns regarding the conduct of prison authorities.

These alarming clips reportedly show Umesh Reddy, currently held at Parappana Agrahara Central Jail, enjoying a comfortable lifestyle, including the use of two Android phones and a keypad mobile for communication.

Reddy, recognized as one of India’s most infamous serial rapists, was convicted for the sexual assault of approximately 20 women and the murder of 18 between 1996 and 2002. Initially sentenced to death, he later sought clemency, claiming mental illness. However, evaluations at NIMHANS Hospital determined he was mentally stable.

Furthermore, Telugu actor Tarun Rao, arrested in connection with the Ranya Rao gold smuggling case, is alleged to be enjoying a lavish existence in jail, with access to a mobile phone and television as shown in the purported video.

Even more concerning are claims that videos depict foreign and domestic suspected terrorists, including an alleged ISIS member, utilizing mobile phones while incarcerated in Bengaluru Central Prison. There are assertions that members of extremist groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba have access to smartphones within this high-security facility, raising severe national security concerns.

A wave of videos emerged last Saturday, creating significant embarrassment for prison authorities. Notably, the Supreme Court had previously issued a stern warning to ensure that prison inmates are not afforded any luxury amenities, particularly in light of the fan murder case involving Kannada superstar Darshan.