Bengaluru: Karnataka BJP MLA Munirathna on Wednesday walked out of the Parappana Agrahara Central Prison here, where he was lodged for nearly a month in connection with a rape case. His release was initiated by the jail authorities a day after a special court granted him bail in the case filed against him by a 40-year-old woman.
Two other accused, who were booked along with him for helping him in executing the crime, were also granted bail.
"The MLA walked out of Parappana Agrahara Central Prison today following a court order granting him bail in the rape case against him," a senior police official said.
The FIR was registered against him and others at the Kaggalipura police station in Ramanagara district following a complaint by a woman, a social worker from Rajarajeshwarinagar who had been active in the BJP.
The MLA had been in judicial custody following his interrogation by the Special Investigation Team, which is probing three cases against him - two filed at the Vyalikaval police station here and the rape case at Kaggalipura station.
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Chennai (PTI): Hundreds of TVK supporters, fuelled by the hope of seeing their leader Vijay as chief minister, gathered at Nehru Indoor Stadium in the city on Thursday, only to be met with locked gates and a lack of information regarding the scheduled proceedings.
Many supporters, travelling from various parts of the state, near and far, like Arumbakkam and Coimbatore, expressed deep disappointment and confusion upon finding the premises closed and without official communication.
Speaking to PTI Videos, fans and party loyalists described a sense of heartbreak after arriving early to secure a place in line.
Charulatha, a supporter, noted the emotional toll of the situation: "We came with so much joy thinking he would become the chief minister today, but there is nothing here. The gates are closed. It is very painful."
Sai Deepika, her daughter and a student set to enter the 12th grade, shared her excitement for the event: "I was very excited to be here. I have been telling everyone he will win and do good things for the people."
A visibly distressed Gunasundari, a long-time political observer from a family of AIADMK supporters, stated she shifted her loyalty to Vijay: "I publicly say I voted for Vijay. I have a belief that he will help those in need. Seeing the gates closed like this is a shock."
Despite the confusion on the ground, the gathered crowd remained steadfast in their political choice. Several supporters highlighted Vijay’s decision to fund party activities independently as a key reason for their trust.
"He didn't take a single rupee from the people for his flag or the stage. He did it all himself," said an emotional Gunasundari. "Even if they try to shame him or create obstacles, he is the one who will eventually win."
Many attendees cited news reports and social media claims as their reason for arriving early on Thursday morning. Some supporters mentioned they had travelled via public transport and waited for hours under the impression that an official declaration or event was imminent.
"My son told me that declarations were made yesterday and everyone was coming today," Gunasundari added. "I didn't even tell him I was leaving; I just started my journey to see him in person for the first time".
