In a significant development, a Bengaluru court on Tuesday granted conditional bail to Congress MLA KC Veerendra, also known as Pappi, who was arrested in a money laundering case linked to online betting operations. The bail comes four months after his arrest by the Enforcement Directorate (ED).

Background of the Case

Veerendra, representing the Challakere constituency, was taken into custody on August 23, 2025, in Gangtok, Sikkim. His arrest followed an extensive investigation into online and offline betting networks allegedly involving illegal money transfers exceeding ₹2,000 crore.

The ED claimed that Veerendra had connections with betting platforms, including apps such as “King567”, which were reportedly used to launder large sums of money through complex networks of accounts and shell companies.

During searches conducted across multiple locations, authorities reportedly recovered significant cash, foreign currency, and kilograms of gold, further deepening suspicions of financial wrongdoing.

Bail Proceedings

Veerendra was lodged at Parappana Agrahara Central Prison in Bengaluru following his arrest. Earlier bail applications were rejected on the grounds that releasing him could interfere with ongoing investigations. However, after the ED submitted a detailed charge sheet before the Special Court for People’s Representatives, his legal team renewed the plea.

The court granted conditional bail under strict stipulations:

• Execution of a personal bond of ₹5 lakh, along with two sureties of the same amount.
• Veerendra must remain within the court’s jurisdiction.
• He is required to cooperate fully with the investigation.
• The order explicitly forbids tampering with evidence or influencing witnesses.

Reaction

Supporters and Congress workers gathered outside the court to welcome the decision. Veerendra is expected to be released from custody on Wednesday after completing the formalities.

This bail marks a critical moment in the high-profile money laundering case, which has drawn significant attention due to the scale of alleged illegal transactions and the involvement of a sitting legislator.