BENGALURU: Social activist Mahesh Shetty Thimarodi, widely known for his struggle for justice in the Sowjanya case, has once again entered a legal battle. Thimarodi has approached the Karnataka High Court challenging the state government's order that externs (banishes) him from Dakshina Kannada district to Raichur for a period of nine months.
What is the Externment Order?
According to the order issued by the Assistant Commissioner (AC) of Puttur:
* Duration: Nine months, effective from December 16, 2025, to September 16, 2026.
* Location: He has been ordered to remain within the jurisdiction of the Manvi Police Station in Raichur district.
What are Thimarodi’s Arguments?
In his petition filed before the High Court, Thimarodi has lashed out at the government’s action:
1. Frivolous Cases: He alleges that the police, acting out of malice, have filed several trivial cases against him following the rallies he organized to seek justice for the Belthangady student (Sowjanya).
2. Defiance of Previous Court Order: He pointed out that the High Court had quashed a similar externment order previously. Despite this, the authorities have issued a new order by flouting established rules.
3. Concealment of Facts: Out of the 26 cases filed against him, he has already been acquitted in 16. He argues that the government is citing old and closed cases to justify the externment.
Objections Raised in the High Court
* Lack of Evidence for Breach of Peace: The petition argues that the police lack any concrete evidence to prove that his presence in his hometown would disturb public peace or damage public property.
* Violation of Fundamental Rights: The plea claims that this order is a clear violation of the personal liberty and fundamental rights guaranteed by the Constitution.
* Malicious Intent: A major allegation in the petition is that the police filed a series of cases as a "preparatory step" specifically to facilitate this externment order.
What Happens Next?
The Secretary of the Home Department, Puttur AC, Bantwal DySP, and the Belthangady Circle Inspector have been named as respondents in the petition. The High Court is expected to take up the matter for hearing shortly.
Previously, the High Court had granted a stay on Thimarodi’s externment. It remains to be seen what stand the court will take regarding this fresh order.