Mangalore:  Naveen Soorinje,  reporter of a private news channel who was arrested in connection with the Padil Homestay attack case, was released from prison at around 5.40 pm on March 23, Saturday, following the High Court granting bail to him.

Naveen was released soon after the  copy of the High Court bail order was signed by the Sessions Court Magistrate and handed over to the jail officials.

There was jubilation inside the prison as Naveen walked free. Outside several well wishers had gathered to accord him a warm welcome.

Speaking after receiving Naveen Soorinje, Muneer Katipalla, District President of the DYFI, said  the arrest  of Naveen Soorinje who showed the ugly face of the moral policemen to the world, only pinpointed towards the failure of the government.

He was critical of the state government for failing to drop the charges against Naveen despite an assurance. Muneer further demanded the release of another media man who is behind the bars in connection with the case as also three other innocents who have been arrested.

He said the progressive organizations would continue their fight against moral policing.

It may be recalled here that the High Court has granted bail to Soorinje  on a surety bond of Rs 5 lakhs and that he should not destroy evidences.  Satish Kumar Bantwal, advocate for Naveen said Naveen will have to appear before the court whenever asked to do so.