Ravi Belagere, Anil Raj file petition, say House does have conviction powers

In a joint petition, editors of the two tabloids ordered arrested by the Karnataka Legislature have moved the High Court of Karnataka against the order. Earlier this week, the House's Privileges Committee's recommended that imprisonment and a fine against the two for publishing "defamatory" articles against the Speaker and two other legislators.

The matter is expected to come up for hearing before the single bench judge Ashok B Hinchigeri on Thursday. Ravi Belagere of 'Hi Bangalore' and Anil Raj of 'Yelahanka Voice' have filed the petition. The petitioners claimed that the Legislature does not have the power to pass a resolution to convict and impose imprisonment. Also, they contended that the House's decision is "abuse of process of law", reports The Hindu.

Meanwhile, Ravi Belagere, who reportedly suffers from diabetes and breathing problems, has admitted himself to the KIMS hospital in Bengaluru.  "Owing to my ill-health, Umesh Hegde had deposed before the committee on behalf of me. However, the committee has refused to consider his submission. This is a gross violation of the law," reports Vijaya Karnataka quoting journalist Ravi Belagere. Reports say that Anil Raj, who was "missing", had apologised before the panel.

The police are keeping a strict vigil outside the KIMS hospital in Hubli where Ravi Belagere is being treated. Opposition Leader in the Legislative Assembly Jagadish Shettar, Sandalwood actor Prakash Rai and others visited Belagere in the hospital and enquired about his health.

• Ravi Belagere
• Scribes' arrest