In a significant legal development, Congress MLA Sateesh Krishna Sail has been sentenced to seven years in prison by a special court for his involvement in the theft and illegal export of seized iron ore from Belekeri port during the years 2009-2010. The verdict was delivered on October 24, and it also carries substantial fines for the convicted lawmaker.
Sateesh Sail, the managing director of Shri Mallikarjuna Shipping Private Ltd, was found guilty of theft, criminal conspiracy, and cheating in a case that implicated him alongside six other co-accused, including the former Deputy Conservator of Ports, Mahesh J Biliye. The court’s decision raises concerns for the two-time MLA from Karwar, as he faces the possibility of losing his assembly membership due to the conviction.
The case revolves around a substantial amount of illegally mined iron ore, valued in crores of rupees, that was stored at Belekeri port in 2010. The accused reportedly colluded with officials to facilitate the smuggling of this ore to China.
Each of these co-accused received various sentences ranging from five to seven years, along with fines amounting to several crores for their roles in the fraud and theft operations.
The court also mandated the confiscation of the fines, which are expected to benefit the government. In a separate ruling, Sateesh Sail was subjected to an additional seven-year sentence for a different case linked to the same crime, highlighting the extensive legal repercussions he faces.
Following the verdict, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), which has been investigating the case, promptly arrested Sail and two others connected to the allegations.
Reacting to Sail’s conviction, Union Minister Pralhad Joshi urged the Karnataka Assembly Speaker to take steps for disqualifying the MLA from his legislative position.
This ruling marks a critical moment in Karnataka’s ongoing efforts to combat corruption and illegal activities within its political framework, as the focus shifts towards accountability and transparency among public representatives.
Sources By Agencies
