BJP insiders say party bosses pressured cops to go slow on former food and civil supplies minister minister, who is accused of rape, so he could oversee party's panchayat poll campaign in Shimoga

Former food and civil supplies minister minister Haratalu Halappa, who is accused of raping his friend Venkateshmurthy's wife Chandravathi, surrendered, on Sunday, a day after Panchayat polls. BJP insiders say the move was timed after much deliberation.

Power play: According to sources, CID sleuths questioning Chandravathi, the alleged rape victim, and her husband Venkateshmurthy, are believed to be coercing the couple to take a stand that will help Halappa come out clean in the matter. file pics Read Next Story Bangloreans to get a ride of their lives› Trending Stories Latest Photos Latest Videos Latest Web Stories ADVERTISEMENT Mid-Day Fast ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT