Hubballi, : In a significant development in the sensational Neha Hiremath murder case, the Dharwad High Court has rejected the bail application of accused Fayaz for the third time, reinforcing the lower court’s earlier decisions and ensuring that he remains in judicial custody.
Neha Hiremath, daughter of Hubballi-Dharwad Municipal Corporation member Niranjan Hiremath, was brutally murdered on April 18, 2024, inside the campus of BVB College. The accused, identified as her classmate Fayaz, allegedly stabbed her multiple times with a sharp weapon, triggering nationwide outrage and protests.
Following the incident, police from the Vidyagiri Police Station arrested the accused. The case was later handed over to the Criminal Investigation Department for a detailed probe. The state government had then assured strict action and a speedy trial.
Fayaz initially moved a bail plea before the Hubballi First District and Sessions Court in August 2024, which was rejected. He subsequently approached the Dharwad bench of the High Court, but his application was dismissed there as well. In his third attempt, the High Court once again declined to grant bail, citing the gravity of the offence and the ongoing trial.
Meanwhile, the trial has commenced before the Hubballi District and Sessions Court, with witness examination already underway. The government has appointed a special public prosecutor to ensure expeditious proceedings and effective representation.
Legal observers say the repeated rejection of bail underscores the seriousness with which the judiciary is viewing the case. The murder had sparked protests across Karnataka, with student groups and civil society organisations demanding stringent punishment.
With the trial now progressing, attention remains focused on the court proceedings. The victim’s family has reiterated its demand for justice, stating that they are confident the judicial process will deliver accountability.
