Bangalore Legal Digest - Tuesday, 24 February 2026

In a significant ruling today, the Karnataka High Court established that a police officer cannot be prosecuted for corruption without clear evidence of both the demand and acceptance of a bribe. This decision raises the bar for prosecuting public servants in Karnataka, potentially limiting the scope of corruption cases and reinforcing the legal protections afforded to officials. As legal professionals navigate this new standard, the ruling could influence the approach to future corruption allegations, necessitating a more rigorous evidentiary foundation for such prosecutions.

In parallel, the court addressed issues of freedom of expression in the entertainment industry, as Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh sought to quash an FIR related to a mimicry incident involving the film "Kantara." This case not only highlights the delicate balance between artistic expression and public sentiment but also sets a precedent for how similar disputes may be adjudicated in the future. Furthermore, the court's closure of a suo motu Public Interest Litigation concerning the Chinnaswamy Stadium stampede underscores the critical need for accountability and safety measures at large events, emphasizing the judiciary's role in public safety oversight. Collectively, these developments reflect the ongoing interplay between legal standards, public interest, and individual rights, marking a pivotal moment for legal practitioners in Karnataka.