Byrathi Basavaraj to undergo echocardiogram at Jayadeva Hospital, to be produced before judge on Saturday

BENGALURU: BJP MLA B A Basavaraj a.k.a Byrathi Basavaraj earned a one-day reprieve from a court after it sent him for medical tests at Sri Jayadeva Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences for an ECHO cardiogram. The judge instructed the investigating officer to produce him on Saturday to decide on custody or jail.

The CID will present Byrathi Basavaraj before the judge’s residence on Saturday, along with medical reports. The BJP MLA was arrested on Thursday in the history-sheeter Biklu Shiva murder case after the Supreme Court denied him pre-arreste bail.

Earlier on Friday, the police brought Byrathi Basavaraj to court after completing his medical tests, seeking custody for further investigation. Deputy SP Gowtham, the investigating officer, filed a remand application, while SPP Ashok Nayak represented the CID.

Byrathi Basavaraj’s lawyer objected, stating he had already appeared twice and his house was searched. He argued custody was not necessary, citing Byrathi Basavaraj’s health issues and influence as a legislator.

SPP Ashok Nayak countered that Byrathi Basavaraj had misled the court earlier and was in touch with the main accused. The CID had gathered evidence, and the High Court had denied bail, directing a detailed investigation, he pointed out.

The lawyer highlighted Byrathi Basavaraj’s heart condition, requesting medical tests. SPP Ashok Nayak assured the court that tests would be conducted without objection.

Byrathi Basavaraj has undergone stent placement and is on medication. Doctors advised tests due to potential heart attack risks. The court awaits the medical report to decide on custody. The CID police took him to their office and then to Jayadeva Hospital for tests.