K'taka HC begins work on Independent MLAs pleas

Bangalore, Nov 2: After upholding the disqualification of the 11 BJP rebel MLAs, the Karnataka High Court on Tuesday, Nov 2 began processing the petitions filed by five Independent MLAs, challenging their disqualification from the Assembly.

The High Court bench, comprising of Justices Mohan Shantanagouder, S Abdul Nazeer and AS Bopanna, issued notice to state Assembly Speaker KG Bopaiah in connection with the disqualification of the five independent MLAs after they withdrew their support to the BS Yeddyurappa-led government.

In their petition, the independents have argued that the anti-defection laws are not applicable to them as they were elected as independents and not as BJP candidates.

BJP, on the other hand, argues that the independents, who were inducted into the ministry, had become part of the party.

The High Court has posted the matter for further hearing on Monday, Nov 8.

OneIndia News