The recent decision by the Karnataka government to withdraw cases related to the old Hubli riots has stirred a wave of opposition, particularly from the BJP, which has launched protests against what it calls an “appeasement strategy.” Following the withdrawal of these cases, there are now fresh demands for the state government to extend the same relief to those accused in the KJ Halli-DJ Halli riots.
In a controversial move, Home Minister Dr G. Parameshwar and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar have considered requests to drop charges related to the KJ Halli-DJ Halli riots. The call to withdraw these cases came after a request from former minister Roshan Baig, who cited the need for leniency, especially for the younger individuals involved.
Addressing the situation, Roshan Baig, while in Delhi, stated, “The government has already withdrawn cases related to the Hubli riots. Now, the people from my community have come forward, urging a similar approach for the KJ Halli-DJ Halli cases. Many of those detained are young boys whose families have requested leniency. If political leaders can have their cases withdrawn without much ado, why can’t we extend the same to these individuals?” Baig pointed out that the people are not asking for pardoning those involved in violence but seeking relief for those wrongfully implicated or facing minor charges.
The DJ Halli and KG Halli riots in August 2020 in Bengaluru were marked by widespread violence, where Muslim mobs attacked police stations, set vehicles on fire, and vandalised properties, including the house of Congress MLA Akhand Srinivasamurthy. The violence was sparked by a social media post that allegedly insulted a religious figure, leading to outrage among the local community. The incident resulted in severe property damage, injuries to police personnel, and the loss of four lives after authorities resorted to firing to bring the situation under control.
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has linked the violence to a larger conspiracy, allegedly orchestrated by SDPI (Social Democratic Party of India) and PFI (Popular Front of India) leaders. According to the charge sheet, the riots were not a spontaneous outburst but a deliberate act meant to stoke communal tensions. The NIA accused leaders like Feroze Pasha and Muzammil Pasha of conspiring to provoke violence by exploiting religious sentiments. The investigation noted that deliberate attempts were made to enrage the Hindu community by sharing inflammatory posts on social media, which eventually led to the unfortunate riots.
“The riots were a result of careful planning by SDPI and PFI leaders, intending to use religious tensions to their advantage,” stated the NIA in its report. They further asserted that the violence was linked to ongoing protests over CAA (Citizenship Amendment Act) and NRC (National Register of Citizens), suggesting a concerted effort to destabilise the region.
BJP leaders have sharply criticised the state government’s stance on withdrawing cases related to the Hubli riots. BJP MLA Araga Jnanendra remarked, “This decision shows the double standards of the government. They are bending the rules to appease certain communities. The people of Karnataka deserve a fair government that upholds the rule of law.”
BJP protests have intensified following this announcement, with leaders accusing the Congress-led government of “vote bank politics.” The party claims that withdrawing cases against those accused in violent riots sends a dangerous message, undermining law enforcement and encouraging unlawful behaviour.
The debate over the withdrawal of cases in Karnataka is not just about legality but has also turned into a political battleground. Roshan Baig emphasised that there is no justification for keeping innocent people in jail under the UAPA (Unlawful Activities Prevention Act) if they are not proven guilty. “What is the Human Rights Commission doing? Are we expected to sit silently while young men lose years of their lives waiting for a fair trial?” Baig asked, hinting at plans to approach human rights organisations if necessary.
The KJ Halli-DJ Halli cases have reignited discussions around the treatment of young detainees, the fairness of charges, and the fine line between maintaining law and order versus safeguarding civil liberties.
As Karnataka’s political atmosphere remains charged, the issue of withdrawing riot-related cases continues to stir controversy. The government’s stance will be closely watched by those directly affected and political observers across the state. CM Siddaramaiah, facing criticism, has yet to address these concerns head-on, and the opposition’s pressure shows no sign of waning.
Meanwhile, many are left wondering if the state’s legal system is being manipulated for political gains, with the recent moves potentially setting a precedent that could influence how similar cases are handled.
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