Halappa judicial custody extended

Doctors say the ex-minister is suffering from diabetes, asthma and vertigo

 CID investigators are likely to subject H Halappa to thorough interrogation during the period. The police will submit an application to collect blood samples of the minister and subject him to tests which is necessary for the probe.

Halappa was hospitalised on Sunday en route prison after he complained that he was feeling unwell. Defence lawyer Ashok Bhat told the Court that his client was not well enough to attend the hearing. The police also urged the court to extend the judicial custody to facilitate further interrogation and collect the blood sample of the accused.
After hearing both the sides, Second Additional JMFC Magistrate Ravikanth extended the judicial custody of the former minister till May 24.

Halappa refused to give his blood sample when CID police sought it during interrogation on Sunday. CID has now sought approval of the court in this regard. Ashok Bhat has said that he will file an objection against this on May 15.

The former minister is suffering from multiple organ diseases like metabolic disorder, diabetes, allergic bronchitis, hypertension, postural vertigo and hypothyroidism.

Speaking to mediapersons here on Monday, Medical Superintendent of McGann Hospital Dr S K Mahendrappa has informed that the CID police have been apprised of the health problems faced by Halappa.

“Halappa is suffering from allergic bronchitis and diabetes from past 10 years. He also has postural vertigo from past three years. Halappa is being placed at ICU ward in the hospital and will be under medical observation for 48 hours,” he informed.

When Halappa was rushed to McGann Hospital on Sunday for medical checkup after his arrest, his glucose level and pulse rate were checked. The ECG test conducted on Sunday revealed some problems in his pulse rate. However, the condition of his heart is stable now, he said.

Assistant Professor in Medicine Dr Shekharappa has submitted a report on health condition of the arrested and Assistant Professor in Forensic Department Dr Chidananda has given a report on Halappa’s sexual condition to Director of Shimoga Institute of Medical Sciences. The report has been handed over to the investigation officer, he stated.

Doctors told Deccan Herald that mental pressure has taken heavy toll on Halappa’s health. He will be referred to Jayadeva Hospital in Bangalore for angiogram and other tests if fluctuations are reported in his health.

An application seeking bail for H Halappa has been filed with the High Court on May 10. Advocate Ashok Bhat informed that the bail plea will come up for hearing before a vacation bench on May 11.