The Special Court for MLAs/MPs in Bengaluru concluded the final statements on the punishment quantum in the murder case of BJP leader Yogesh Gowda. The verdict is scheduled for Friday after the completion of counterarguments by the CBI and convicted Congress MLA Vinay Kulkarni’s counsels. Emotional scenes unfolded at the court premises with convicts’ families in tears during the proceedings.
In a significant development, the Special Court found senior Congress MLA Vinay Kulkarni guilty in the murder case of Yogesh Gowda. Kulkarni, accused number 15 in the case, currently serves as the Chairman of the Karnataka Urban Water Supply and Drainage Board. The court convicted him of criminal conspiracy after a prolonged trial.
During the court proceedings, Additional Solicitor General V. Raju urged for the harshest punishment for the accused, emphasizing the cold-blooded murder resulting from a political rivalry. Raju highlighted the misuse of power by the accused, alleging the orchestration of the killing and manipulation of the system. He stressed that the accused violated constitutional principles and misused their position as a legislator.
Convicted MLA Vinay Kulkarni defended himself before the court, denying any wrongdoing and attributing the case to political motives. Kulkarni, who has been in politics for 26 years, pleaded for leniency, citing his family responsibilities and clean record. His counsel argued for a sentence allowing room for reformation, considering Kulkarni’s public service and character.
