Sat Dec 21 06:12:19 UTC 2024: ## BJP Protests Arrest of MLC C.T. Ravi, Accuses Congress of Police State Tactics

**Belagavi, Karnataka, December 20, 2024** – BJP leaders staged a protest in Belagavi today following the arrest of BJP MLC C.T. Ravi, alleging the arrest was unlawful and part of a larger pattern of police state tactics by the Congress government.

The protest, held in front of the Rani Channamma statue, saw BJP members carrying placards accusing the Congress of dictatorial behavior and police excesses. Mr. Ravi’s arrest stemmed from an alleged use of obscene language towards Minister Laxmi Hebbalkar. While the case was initially transferred to a special court in Bengaluru, the High Court later ordered his release.

MLA and Leader of the Opposition R. Ashok criticized the police action, stating that Legislative Council Chairman Basavaraj Horatti had already declared the matter settled. Mr. Ashok further highlighted a previous incident involving Siddaramaiah, accusing him of a similar offense without facing legal repercussions. He also alleged that Mr. Ravi faced physical abuse during his arrest and that BJP legislators were denied access to police stations.

MLC N. Ravi Kumar echoed these sentiments, claiming the arrest violated legislative rules and established traditions by failing to seek permission from the Chairman before apprehending a Council member. Both BJP leaders called for an investigation into the events, including video footage from the Legislative Council that reportedly shows heated exchanges between Mr. Ravi and Ms. Hebbalkar. The BJP continues to maintain that the arrest was politically motivated harassment.

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