Karnataka HC Grants Bail To Accused In Alleged Mob Lynching Following Cricket Match Altercation

The Karnataka High Court has granted bail to an accused in a mob assault and murder case arising from allegations that a man was beaten to death after allegedly raising “Pakistan Pakistan” slogans during a cricket match shortly after the Pahalgam attack.

In Manjunatha v. State of Karnataka & Anr., Justice V. Srishananda observed that the incident appeared to have occurred “at the spur of the moment” and that no deadly weapons were used during the assault.

According to the prosecution, the deceased allegedly entered a cricket ground in Dakshina Kannada district on April 27, 2025 and raised pro-Pakistan slogans, enraging spectators and players who chased him towards a nearby temple. The mob allegedly assaulted him using kicks, fists and tree branches, leading to his death.

The petitioner, arraigned as accused No. 3, was specifically accused of sprinkling chilli powder on the victim’s wounds and private parts. However, the Court noted that the autopsy report did not mention traces of chilli powder and no such material was allegedly seized from the spot.

The Court also questioned the registration of two separate reports relating to the same incident and noted the absence of evidence suggesting prior conspiracy or premeditation. Considering that the accused had spent over a year in custody and that 216 witnesses were cited in the chargesheet, the Court granted bail subject to conditions.