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Prasad Bidappa’s drug trial begins

DUBAI — The Dubai Criminal Court yesterday commenced the trial of Bangalore-based fashion designer Prasad Bidappa who was arrested on June 12 at the Dubai International Airport on charges of possessing drugs.

The 50-year-old Bidappa was travelling from Bangalore and was allegedly caught with 2gm of marijuana (ganja) in his hand baggage. The trial started at 8.30am yesterday and continued for 15 minutes. No witnesses were called, and the designer appeared in his first court hearing with folded hands. The lawyer who was appointed for him also appeared.

The trial was adjourned to July 27. A source in the court said that the case was very clear and only documents or evidence were needed. Bidappa will be sentenced according to the evidence available, and ruled according to the UAE law.

Lawyers say that Bidappa may face up to 15 years in prison if found guilty of possessing drugs. “The UAE drug laws are very clear on drug offenders, with conviction rates being quite high. If the test results show that he had banned substances in his body, than he could be looking at a prison term of between 2-15 years at least,” said Mustafa Zafeer, advocate and legal advisor.

Bidappa came to Dubai to attend a fashion meet. Known for his flamboyant lifestyle, he is credited with putting Bangalore on the world’s fashion map. He is also known to have launched the careers of several top models like Dino Morea, Vidhisha Pavate, Lara Dutta, and the late Nafisa Joseph. Earlier, Bidappa from his detention cell told your favourite No.1 newspaper ‘Khaleej Times’ that the UAE authorities were treating him quite well and that he would definitely abide by the country’s laws.”