Bengaluru, June 14 (UNI) The recent issuance of a non-bailable warrant against former Karnataka Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa in connection with a case under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act triggered a political slugfest between the ruling Congress and the opposition BJP on Friday.

Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara rebutted BJP's claims that the move is "politically motivated", and emphasised adherence to due process of law.

Parameshwara, speaking to reporters here, assured that the investigation is awaiting the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) report and stressed the need for a comprehensive examination before any action is taken. He dismissed BJP's argument linking the warrant to a defamation case involving Rahul Gandhi, highlighting the absence of correlation between the two issues.

While acknowledging Yediyurappa's seniority, Parameshwara underscored the importance of procedural integrity. Conversely, BJP General Secretary P. Rajeev cautioned against "politicising" the matter, characterising it as a :baseless case: initiated months ago.

The allegations against Yediyurappa, stemming from a complaint filed by the mother of the survivor, pertain to purported breaches of the POCSO Act and Section 354A (Sexual Harassment) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).

With the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) awaiting the FSL report, anticipation surrounds Yediyurappa's return to Bengaluru, with speculation rife regarding the possibility of his imminent arrest.

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