Katta case: Security to complainant will continue

The State Police has submitted to the High Court that it will extend protection to N Ramanjinappa, the person on whose complaint former Minister Katta Subramanya Naidu and his son Katta Jagadish were arrested.

Following a petition challenging the withdrawal of protection by the police department, the police submitted that it will continue to give protection to the complainant. 

Justice Abdul Nazeer lashed out at them, questioning the reason for withdrawal of the protection. The petitioner, in his submission, stated that he made a representation to the investigating agency and accordingly, the Lokayukta had twice recommended to the police to provide necessary protection to him and his family members.

The counsel for the petitioners, Gangadhar Sangolli, in his submission before the court, said that the security was provided till February 11, 2012 and has now been withdrawn abruptly without there being any change in circumstances. 

“It has been withdrawn at this stage when all the main accused have been released on bail,” he said.

The petitioner, noting that it is the fundamental right of the petitioner to be provided security and protection for himself and his family members from the threat of whatsoever nature, said that the action of the respondents was highly arbitrary, illegal and could not be sustained under law.

“Security was provided when the main accused were in the jail and in custody. Now, with they being released on bail, there is an increase in the degree of threat to me and my family members. There is absolute necessity of providing security,” the petitioner said.

Justice Abdul Nazeer said, “This is an extraordinary case. You should be thankful to him for saving the Government property. Why is that you can’t give him security?” The Government counsel submitted that the security would be extended to the petitioner.