Hindu Leader Puneeth Kerehalli Protests Outside Bengaluru Police Station Over CCTV Access Denial

Bengaluru — Hindu organization leader Puneeth Kerehalli has launched a round-the-clock protest outside the Cottonpet police station, demanding access to CCTV footage related to an alleged assault against him. Kerehalli claims that police have refused to provide the footage, which he believes will prove his allegations.

Kerehalli, who previously accused police of assault and sexual abuse within the Cottonpet police station, had filed a Right to Information (RTI) request for the CCTV footage. According to Kerehalli, the police have not complied with his request and have instead delayed and obstructed access to the footage. He has taken to Twitter to express his frustration and call for transparency.

In his tweet, Kerehalli stated, “ACP Chandan Kumar assaulted me and stripped me naked on July 26, 2024, inside the Cottonpet police station. Despite requesting the CCTV footage through RTI, the police have delayed and obstructed my access. If they have nothing to hide, why the delay? I have decided to protest outside the station until the CCTV footage is provided.”

The incident leading to the protest began last month when Kerehalli was arrested on allegations related to the illegal transportation of dog meat. After being released on bail, Kerehalli alleged mistreatment by the police, prompting Hindu organization activists to protest outside the Basaveshwaranagar police station. During that protest, former MP Pratap Simha and current MP Harish Poonja joined the demonstration, demanding disciplinary action against ACP Chandan Kumar.

Kerehalli’s ongoing protest highlights the tension between community leaders and local law enforcement, emphasizing the need for accountability and transparency in police actions. The situation remains tense as Kerehalli and his supporters continue their demonstration in pursuit of justice.