HC asks BSY to file counter affidavit

The High Court of Karnataka on Monday directed former chief minster B S Yeddyurappa to file a counter affidavit in his petition seeking relaxation of one of the conditions of anticipatory bail granted in connection with illegal mining case being probed by the CBI.

Yeddyurappa and other accused in the case had sought relaxation of the condition that they should seek permission of the court to travel out of Bangalore City.

The High Court granted conditional anticipatory bail in the case on June 21. The Supreme Court rejected the CBI’s plea, seeking cancellation of the anticipatory bail on August 6.

Ashok Harnahalli, the counsel for the former chief minister, in his submission to the High Court, stated that Yeddyurappa’s situation was nothing but house arrest.

“A few days ago, when he (Yeddyurappa) was admitted to Jindal Institute of Naturopathy, the CBI questioned him stating it was some kilometres away from Bangalore," he said.

Harnahalli said Yeddyurappa and his associates would be available for investigation, if they are informed of the schedule a day before. 

Haranahalli contended that the petitioners, being elected representatives, hold the responsibility to visit their constituencies and tour other parts of the State affected by drought.

Justice Subhash B Adi asked Yeddyurappa and others to file affidavits explaining the said reasons and also stating that they would be present before the CBI whenever the investigating agency requires them. The matter was adjourned for Tuesday.