Hate Speech Case Leads to Custody of Mahesh Shetty Timarodi
Belthangady: Activist Mahesh Shetty Timarodi was taken into custody by the Brahmavar Police of Udupi on Thursday morning for inquiry in connection with a hate speech case. The arrest follows the registration of a case at the Brahmavar Police Station against Mr. Shetty Timarodi, who is alleged to have made derogatory remarks against BJP National General Secretary B.L. Santosh.
According to official sources, the police had issued a notice to Mr. Shetty Timarodi on Wednesday, requiring his appearance for questioning. However, he reportedly failed to comply with the notice. This prompted the Brahmavar Police to take further action.
On Thursday morning, law enforcement officers arrived at Mr. Shetty Timarodi’s residence in Ujire to take him into custody. Upon learning of the police action, a group of supporters gathered in front of the residence, resulting in a tense atmosphere. The situation was eventually diffused after discussions between Mr. Shetty Timarodi’s legal representatives and the police. His lawyers assured the authorities that Mr. Shetty Timarodi would appear at the police station voluntarily.
Subsequently, Mr. Shetty Timarodi departed in a private vehicle, accompanied by officers from the Udupi Police. Social activists Girish Mattannanavar and Jayanth T. also accompanied him to the station.
Udupi Superintendent of Police Hariram Shankar addressed the situation, stating, “Several non-bailable cases have been registered against Timarodi. Despite being issued two notices to appear for questioning, he failed to comply. Hence, Udupi Police have taken him into custody.”
The investigation into the hate speech case is ongoing, and further details are expected to be released following the questioning of Mr. Shetty Timarodi. The authorities have not yet disclosed the specific content of the alleged derogatory remarks that led to the filing of the case.