The Karnataka High Court has granted regular bail to two men accused of allegedly defacing a portrait of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar with cow dung in Bengaluru Rural district. The Court observed that while the allegations are serious, the concerns of the prosecution could be addressed by imposing strict bail conditions.
Background of the Case
The appeal was filed by M. Ajay Kumar and Madhu after the trial court rejected their bail plea. They challenged the order passed on May 14, 2026, in connection with Crime No. 91/2026 registered at Hosakote Police Station under Section 298 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, and Section 3(1)(t) of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989.
According to the prosecution, the accused, who belong to the Reddy community, allegedly defaced Dr. Ambedkar's portrait. The complaint was initially registered against unknown persons before the police identified the accused during investigation.
The appellants argued that they were innocent and claimed the case arose from local disputes and previous enmity. They also pointed out that they had remained in judicial custody since April 28, 2026.
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The State opposed bail, arguing that the alleged act against the portrait of Dr. Ambedkar was a grave matter. However, Justice S. Rachaiah noted that witness statements formed part of the investigation and said,
"Having considered the gravity and nature of offence, it is appropriate to grant bail to the appellants by imposing suitable bail conditions."
The High Court allowed the criminal appeal, set aside the trial court's order, and directed that both appellants be released on bail upon furnishing personal bonds of ₹1 lakh each with one surety. The Court also imposed conditions, including appearing before the trial court, not threatening witnesses, not hampering proceedings, and not leaving the court's jurisdiction without permission.
Case Details:
Case Title: M. Ajay Kumar & Anr. v. State by Hosakote Police & Anr.
Case Number: Criminal Appeal No. 869 of 2026
Judge: Justice S. Rachaiah
Decision Date: June 29, 2026
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