Major Win for National Investigation Agency
In a significant development in the 2020 Bengaluru riots case, a special NIA court has sentenced three accused to seven years of rigorous imprisonment after they pleaded guilty during the charge-framing stage. This verdict marks a notable victory for the National Investigation Agency (NIA) in uncovering the larger conspiracy behind such violent incidents.
Charges and Convictions
The convicted individuals, Syed Ikramuddin alias Syed Naveed (44), Syed Asif (46), and Mohammed Atif (26), faced charges under various sections of the Indian Penal Code, the Karnataka Prevention of Destruction and Loss of Property Act (KPDLP), and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).
Background of the Case
The case revolved around a violent mob attack on August 11, 2020, targeting the residences of Congress MLA Akhanda Srinivas Murthy and police stations in KG Halli and DJ Halli. The unrest stemmed from a contentious Facebook post allegedly made by the MLA’s nephew, leading to three fatalities in police shootings and extensive damage in the area.
Links to Banned Outfit
Prior investigations by the NIA unveiled connections between the accused individuals and the banned organization Popular Front of India, including its political wing SDPI. The agency detailed how PFI members orchestrated the violence to spark communal turmoil and assail state authority. These revelations played a pivotal role in the Union Home Ministry’s decision to outlaw PFI in 2022.
Statements on Upholding Law and Order
Special public prosecutor for NIA in Bengaluru, P Prasanna Kumar, emphasized the significance of preserving public confidence in the police force amidst such attacks. He highlighted how the convicted individuals’ actions, particularly the torching of the KG Halli police station, jeopardized public safety and warranted strong legal action.
The recent court judgment not only reinstated faith in law enforcement but also validated the central government’s stance on declaring PFI as an unlawful association.
