Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (SP)

Mangaluru, Jul 7: Prakash L Shetty from Kadandale Parari near Moodbidri, presently practicing law at Mumbai, has been included in the panel of five special public prosecutors picked to represent National Investigation Agency (NIA) in Maharashtra. His name is included among five special public prosecutors appointed to argue cases on behalf of NIA in that state, and Shetty finds himself among 33 special public prosecutors appointed by NIA.

At the same time, controversial lawyer hailing from coastal Karnataka, Rohini Salian, who had recently made allegations against NIA of advising her to toe a soft line in case of accused in Malegaon blast case, has been dropped from the list. The other public prosecutors who will represent NIA in Maharashtra are Pradhan Chandamal, Nandkishore Rathore, Sunil Gonsalves, and Avinash Rasal. These appointments were made as per an order dated May 25 signed by joint secretary, M V Ganapati.

Prakash has emerged as a leading lawyer by successfully arguing several criminal cases. He also happens to be a noted social worker. Issues relating to the welfare of Mumbai-based Tuluvas and Kannadigas have always been close to his heart. He gets credit for editing and publishing the directory on behalf of Bombay Bunts Association. He has been active in several organizations and institutions involved with social service.

Rohini Salian fell out of favour with NIA after she made the above allegations, which the premier investigation agency from the country has stoutly denied. Rohini, who has been serving in Mumbai as lawyer, had functioned as chief public prosecutor there for five years. The cases she represented included Mulund bomb blast and Ghatkoper bomb blast, and some cases falling under Terrorist and Disruptive Activities (Prohibition) Act and Maharashtra Control of Organized Crimes Act.