JUDGMENT :

Ashok G Nijagannavar, J.

1. This petition is filed under Section 482 of Cr.P.C. for quashing the proceedings in C.C.No.177/2017 arising out of Crime No.16/2016 of Devadurga Police Station for the offences punishable under Sections 171(H) & 188 of IPC.

2. The facts leading to this petition are that on the basis of the complaint filed by one Sri.Shivasharanappa Kattole, Tahasildar Deodurga, the respondent - police have registered the case. The allegations are that on 18.1.2016 the petitioner had submitted an application seeking permission to hold the meeting on behalf of the Congress party. Considering the said application, the permission was granted. Thereafter, it was learnt that on 19.1.2016 a public meeting was held in a Kalyan Mantap at Manasgal Renganath Temple, a public place and thereby the petitioner has violated the Election Code of Conduct.

3. This matter is at the stage of admission. With the consent of both the learned counsel appearing on both side, this petition is taken up for final disposal.

4. Heard the learned counsel for the petitioner and respondent. Perused the records.

5. The learned counsel for the petitioner submitted that the cognizance taken by the lea