Updated
Daijiworld Media Network – Belthangady (EP)
Belthangady, May 22: In a high-drama incident, police personnel, including DySP and Belthangady police circle inspector, accompanied by KSRP personnel, arrived to arrest MLA Harish Poonja. However, they left after issuing two notices requesting the MLA to appear for questioning by the next three days.
The confrontation between MLA Harish Poonja and the police officials, along with protests over the two cases registered against BJP leader Shashiraj Shetty and his arrest, lasted throughout the day.
The situation intensified with police showing determination to arrest the MLA amid heated discussions between police officials and advocates. Four groups of KSRP officials, along with SIs and circle inspectors from all police stations, were deployed in the Gardadi area.
A large gathering of party workers prevented the police from entering the house in the evening, raising tensions. Amidst the standoff, MP Nalin Kumar intervened, offering himself for arrest instead. Following this, the DySP and circle inspector requested permission to enter the house.
After MLA Harish Poonja instructed his party workers to allow the police entry, the officials finally entered the house. The day’s drama concluded with the police issuing notices to MLA Poonja to appear for questioning and then departing.
Earlier Report
Beltangady police move to arrest MLA Harish Poonja amid violent protest charges
Daijiworld Media Network – Beltangady
Beltangady May 22: Police have arrived at the residence of MLA Harish Poonja to arrest him following his involvement in a violent protest in Beltangady. A group of lawyers has also gathered at Poonja’s residence, anticipating his arrest, while numerous party workers have assembled outside in support.
Adding to the tension, MP Nalin Kumar Kateel and BJP Dakshian Kannada Lok Sabha MP candidate Brijesh Chowta are en route to Harish Poonja’s residence to presumably show solidarity.
Circle inspector Subbapoor Math and sub-inspector Chandrashekar of the Beltangady police station visited the residence of MLA Harish Poonja on Wednesday, following charges related to a violent protest. Poonja has been residing in the Mithila Nivasa house, Gardadi.
At the scene, a team of advocates engaged in lengthy discussions with the police officials, attempting to navigate the legal complexities of the situation. Meanwhile, a large number of party workers gathered outside the house, showing their support for Poonja and contributing to the tension.
It may be recalled that two FIRs have been lodged against Harish Poonja, which have led to the current situation and the potential for his imminent arrest.