Karnataka forms 6-member cabinet panel to review, recommend withdrawal of criminal cases

The Karnataka government has constituted a 6-member cabinet sub-committee to examine pending criminal cases and recommend which ones may be considered for withdrawal.

The committee headed by State Home Minister Priyank Kharge will comprise Health Minister UT Khader, Social Welfare Minister KH Muniyappa, Municipal Administration Minister HC Balakrishna, Greater Bengaluru Development Minister Krishna Byre Gowda and Urban Development Department Minister Yathindra Siddaramaiah.

According to a press release issued by the Home Minister's office, the committee will examine the nature and background of each case, besides other relevant factors, before making its recommendations. The government has directed that the recommendations of the committee be made in accordance with the applicable rules governing withdrawal of criminal cases.

The release further stated that the Home Department shall provide the necessary assistance to the cabinet sub-committee in accordance with Rule 13(5) of the Karnataka Government (Transaction of Business) Rules, 1977, and the circular issued by the department on March 15, 2025.

The concerned departments have also been directed to provide the necessary assistance to the cabinet sub-committee in carrying out the review. The committee's recommendations will subsequently be placed before the government for consideration in accordance with the applicable legal and administrative framework.