New Delhi, June 13, 2025
In a strong message against interference with the justice system, the Supreme Court of India on Thursday rejected the plea of Karnataka Congress MLA Vinay Kulkarni, who had sought an extension of time to surrender in connection with the murder of BJP Zilla Panchayat member Yogesh Gowdar.
Kulkarni, who was earlier granted bail by the apex court in 2021 under strict conditions, is now required to surrender within one month as his bail stands cancelled due to alleged violations, including attempts to influence witnesses during the ongoing trial.
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) had submitted before the court that Kulkarni, despite the conditions attached to his bail, had tried to approach and influence key prosecution witnesses, either directly or through close associates.
Taking note of these allegations, the Supreme Court had earlier revoked his bail, stating that any action that undermines the integrity of the trial process must be viewed seriously. On Thursday, when Kulkarni approached the court seeking more time to surrender, the bench refused to grant any extension, calling the request “unjustified.”
Court Emphasizes Speedy Trial
The apex court also directed the trial court to proceed expeditiously, noting that the matter had already seen significant delays. “The accused must surrender within the time already granted. No further indulgence can be allowed,” the bench observed in its brief but firm order.
Background
The case dates back to 2016, when BJP leader Yogesh Gowdar was brutally murdered in Dharwad. Kulkarni, a prominent Congress leader from the region, was later named as a key accused in the murder conspiracy. The CBI took over the investigation in 2020, and charges were subsequently framed.
In August 2021, the Supreme Court granted conditional bail to Kulkarni, barring him from entering Dharwad district or interacting with anyone associated with the case.
However, based on CBI’s evidence submitted in late 2024, it was alleged that two crucial witnesses were approached by individuals linked to the accused. While co-accused Chandrashekar’s bail was cancelled by the trial court, Kulkarni remained protected under the SC’s original order until now.
Vinay Kulkarni is a former minister and a senior leader in Karnataka Congress. The court’s firm stance is expected to have political repercussions, with the opposition BJP already terming it as a “vindication” of their long-standing demand for accountability.
Congress leaders have so far remained tight-lipped, while sources indicate that Kulkarni may be preparing to surrender in the coming days to avoid further legal complications.
