A 58-year-old two-time MLA from Karwar, Sateesh Krishna Sail, has been sentenced to seven years in prison by a special court for theft and illegal export of iron ore from Belekeri port.

This conviction raises questions about the potential loss of his membership in the congregation.

Sail, who acted as managing director of Shri Mallikarjuna Shipping Private Ltd, was found guilty of charges of theft, criminal conspiracy and cheating. Extensive fines were imposed along with co-convicts.

(With input from agencies.)