Karnataka govt orders arrest of Nithyananda

Karnataka Chief Minister Sadananda Gowda on Monday ordered the arrest of absconding self-styled Godman Swamy Nithyananda.

In a high level meeting convened in the presence of Home minister R. Ashok and law minister Suresh Kumar and DCP Pachavo, Chief Minister Sadananda Gowda further ordered to lock down and search Swamy Nithyananda Ashram.

Swamy Nithyananda Ashram has been the centre of protests from last three days. There are allegations of malpractice, sexual abuse, hooliganism and land acquirement on Swamy Nithyananda.

While speaking to media, Home Minister R Ashok on Sunday said, “State government is observing the development of Nithyanada Ashram. After consulting experts chief minister will take suitable decision.”

Prohibitory orders continued to be in place in the vicinity of the Ashram till Monday.

On Friday, a clash broke out between the disciples of Swamy Nithyananda and pro-Kannada activists in the ashram premises after which 15 disciples of Nithyananda were taken into custody.

Nithyananda has gone into hiding since the incident.