CN Chinnayya, the one who was allegedly involved in illegal mass burials in Dharmasthala, has been granted bail by the Mangaluru District Court. Chinnayya — who had been in Shivamogga jail for three months — was arrested on charges of perjury after inconsistencies were discovered in his claims.
The former sanitation worker had originally stated that numerous bodies of women and minors, some showing signs of sexual assault, were secretly interred in Dharmasthala between 1995 and 2014. However, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) found significant discrepancies between his statements and the evidence available, which ultimately led to his arrest on August 23. Following initial SIT custody, he was remanded to judicial custody in Shivamogga.
The court approved the bail following a detailed hearing, subject to twelve specific conditions, including the provision of a ₹1 lakh bond.
The court order stipulates that Chinnayya must not repeat a similar offence nor attempt to abscond while the trial is ongoing.
He was barred from intimidating, bribing, or influencing the witnesses in any manner and was not to tamper with any evidence related to the case. Further, the applicant shall fully cooperate with the IO and shall present himself whenever called upon. He was to attend each and every date of the court, without fail, unless specifically exempted in writing.
Additional conditions include— Chinnayya will have to furnish valid proof of address concerning him and his sureties, such as Aadhaar or voter ID. Any change in his place of residence is to be intimated to the court forthwith. He is further directed to disclose his mobile telephone number, WhatsApp number, and email address to the court and is forbidden from leaving the jurisdiction of the court without prior permission.
Regarding compliance, the court has barred Chinnayya from making any public pronouncements or giving interviews to the media concerning the alleged crime. Additionally, upon his release, he must report to the local police station on alternate days until such time as the charge sheet or final report is formally filed.
Also read: K'taka HC orders interim stay in Dharmasthala case probe
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