2017 Gauri Lankesh Murder Case: Last Accused Granted Bail

Sharad Bhausaheb Kalaskar, the last accused in the 2017 Gauri Lankesh murder case, has been granted bail. Learn about the court’s decision and the case’s latest updates.

2017 Gauri Lankesh Murder Case: Last Accused Granted Bail

The 2017 murder of journalist Gauri Lankesh shocked the nation, sparking debates about freedom of speech and the rise of extremism. After years of investigation and legal battles, the case has reached another critical juncture with the last accused, Sharad Bhausaheb Kalaskar, being granted bail. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the recent developments.

Key Developments in the Gauri Lankesh Case

Kalaskar’s Bail Ruling:

On January 8, 2025, the Bengaluru Principal City Civil and Sessions Court, led by Judge B Muralidhara Pai, granted Kalaskar bail on a personal bond under strict conditions.

The court ruled that his prolonged detention violated his constitutional right to a speedy trial under Article 21 of the Constitution.

Status of the Accused:

17 of the 18 accused in the case are now out on bail.

One accused individual remains absconding.

Prosecution’s Opposition:

The prosecution opposed the bail plea, citing Kalaskar’s previous conviction in the murder of rationalist Narendra Dabholkar and the risk of reoffending.

However, the court dismissed these concerns, noting that most remaining witnesses are law enforcement personnel, reducing the risk of interference.

Background: Gauri Lankesh Murder Case

On September 5, 2017, Gauri Lankesh, a vocal critic of right-wing ideologies and a champion of free speech, was shot dead outside her residence in Bengaluru.

The prosecution claims the accused were part of a secretive organization aiming to establish a Hindu Rashtra, with Kalaskar allegedly involved in training co-accused in weapon handling and bomb-making.

Kalaskar had been in custody since September 4, 2018, making him the last accused to remain behind bars.
His defense argued that with 16 co-accused already released on bail, his continued detention was unwarranted.

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Court’s Justification for Bail

Right to a Speedy Trial:

The court emphasized that Kalaskar’s extended pretrial detention was unjustified, citing the need to uphold his constitutional rights.

Limited Risk of Witness Interference:

Most witnesses are law enforcement officials, minimizing the likelihood of intimidation or tampering.

Consistency in Bail Decisions:

With 16 co-accused already out on bail, denying Kalaskar the same relief was deemed inconsistent.

Reactions to the Ruling

Prosecution:
- The prosecution expressed concern over Kalaskar’s release, highlighting his previous involvement in high-profile cases of extremism.
Public and Activists:
- The ruling has reignited public debates about justice and accountability in the Gauri Lankesh case, with some criticizing the perceived delays in achieving a conclusive verdict.

What’s Next?

The release of the 17th accused leaves the case’s future uncertain as:

One accused remains absconding, with efforts ongoing to locate them.
The trial proceedings must now move forward without further delays to address public concerns over justice and accountability.

FAQs About the Gauri Lankesh Murder Case

1. Who was Gauri Lankesh?

Gauri Lankesh was a renowned journalist and activist known for her strong criticism of right-wing ideologies and advocacy for freedom of speech.

2. What was Sharad Kalaskar’s alleged role?

Kalaskar is accused of training other defendants in weapon handling and bomb-making.

3. Why did the court grant Kalaskar bail?

The court ruled that his prolonged detention violated his constitutional right to a speedy trial, especially as 16 co-accused had already been released.

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