Karnataka BJP MLA Byrathi Basavaraj underwent over three hours of questioning by Bengaluru police on Saturday in connection with the brutal murder of 40-year-old rowdy-sheeter-turned-realtor Shivaprakash, alias Biklu Shivu, hacked to death in Bharathi Nagar on July 15. The K.R. Puram MLA, named as the fifth accused in the FIR, cooperated with the investigation as mandated by the Karnataka High Court, which directed him to appear on July 19.

Police have arrested five suspects—Jagadish, Kiran, Vimal, Anil, and Fredrick—in the case, with Jagadish identified as a key associate of Basavaraj. A senior police officer stated, “A detailed inquiry is underway, and further action will be taken based on findings.” Basavaraj, however, denied any connection, telling reporters, “I have no role. I don’t know any Jagadish.” He confirmed his willingness to return for further questioning on July 23 as requested by authorities.

The case took a twist when Vijayalakshmi, the victim’s mother, claimed she did not name Basavaraj in her initial complaint, alleging police added his name independently. This has fueled BJP accusations of a Congress-led political conspiracy, with state president B.Y. Vijayendra claiming the government is targeting prominent Backward Class leaders. Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara dismissed these allegations, insisting the investigation is lawful and driven by the FIR’s contents.

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The prosecution suggested Basavaraj may have influenced Vijayalakshmi post-murder to secure court protection, a claim he denies. The Karnataka High Court has granted him temporary relief from arrest until July 21 while he seeks to quash the FIR, arguing it lacks merit. The ongoing investigation, centered on a disputed Kithaganur property, continues to stir political tensions in Karnataka.

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