Daijiworld Media Network - Bangalore

Bangalore, Dec 5: A delegation of senior journalists on Tuesday December 4 submitted a memorandum to chief minister Jagadish Shettar urging early release of journalist Naveen Soorinje, who has been arrested in connection with the attack on a home stay in Mangalore on July 28 this year.

The delegation met the CM at his official residence 'Krishna' and submitted their appeal, in which they urged him to reconsider the facts of the case as presented by the Mangalore police.

They also requested the CM to ensure that the state does not challenge Soorinje's bail application when it comes up before the high court.

The delegation in its memorandum stated that Soorinje's evidence in the case had helped the state government to bring the culprits to book, but instead of being listed as a witness, Soorinje was made an  accused and charged under the same sections of the IPC as attackers.

The delegation entreated the CM to withdraw the charges filed against Soorinje, claiming that vested interests were behind his arrest and prolonged custody.

In reply, Shettar assured that he will hold discussions in this regard with senior police officers and legal experts and take appropriate action.

Speaking on the occasion, senior journalist Dinesh Amin Mattu alleged that Hindu Jagarana Vedike (HJV) and some police officers together had a hand in Soorinje's arrest.

Other senior journalists like Parvati Menon, Krishnaprasad, Laxman Hoogar and others were present.