September 5, 2025 — The Karnataka cabinet, led by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, has approved the withdrawal of 60 criminal cases filed against political and social activists, including several supporters of Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar. The decision, taken earlier this week, has already triggered strong reactions across the state, drawing praise from some quarters and criticism from others who view the move as politically motivated.
According to official sources, the cases identified for withdrawal include those linked to protests, agitations, and demonstrations held over the past decade. Many of these were filed during large-scale rallies on issues such as land disputes, water sharing, and farmers’ rights. Notably, a number of cases involve Congress party workers, particularly supporters of Deputy CM D. K. Shivakumar, who has faced multiple legal battles over the years. The government has clarified that no “serious criminal offences” such as murder or crimes involving violence against women are part of the withdrawal. Instead, the list primarily covers cases related to political demonstrations, public gatherings without permission, and other protest-related activities.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah defended the cabinet’s decision, stating that the move was intended to uphold democratic rights and prevent activists from being penalized for participating in social and political movements. “Protests and agitations are part of a healthy democracy. Many of these cases were filed in the heat of political or social movements and do not merit prolonged legal proceedings,” Siddaramaiah said during a press briefing. Deputy Chief Minister Shivakumar, whose followers stand to benefit significantly from the decision, also welcomed the move, describing it as a gesture of justice for grassroots workers.
However, opposition parties have strongly criticized the cabinet’s approval. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) accused the Congress government of misusing its authority to protect loyalists and undermine the legal process. “This is nothing but political favoritism. By withdrawing cases against their own workers, the Congress is sending out a dangerous message that law and order can be bent for political convenience,” a BJP spokesperson remarked. Legal experts have also expressed concerns, suggesting that while governments do have the power to withdraw cases in public interest, such decisions must be transparent and backed by strong justification. Critics warn that selective withdrawals could erode public trust in the judicial system.
The decision comes at a time when the Siddaramaiah-led government is attempting to consolidate its political base ahead of upcoming civic and panchayat elections. Analysts note that moves such as case withdrawals often serve as a strategy to strengthen loyalty among party workers and activists who play a crucial role in mobilizing support during polls. Similar withdrawals have been witnessed in other states in the past, where ruling parties sought to ease the legal burden on their cadre involved in political agitations. However, the scale and timing of Karnataka’s decision have added to its political sensitivity.
With the cabinet’s approval, the state government is expected to formally notify the withdrawal of these 60 cases in the coming weeks, following legal procedures in consultation with the judiciary. While supporters hail the move as a step towards protecting democratic participation, critics insist it undermines accountability and fairness in governance. As Karnataka navigates the fallout, the decision is likely to remain a flashpoint in the state’s political discourse, underscoring the complex balance between democratic rights and the rule of law.
