Bangalore, Feb 23, (PTI): Karnataka High Court today directed the city Police Commissioner to consider and pass appropriate orders within four weeks on a representation by former gangster Muthalppa Rai seeking police protection citing life threats. 

Counsel for the petitioner, Bipin Hegde submitted there were several political and business opponents inimically disposed against Rai and constantly holding out threats to his life.

Despite giving a representation to the Goverment, Home Secretary, DGP and the Commissioner of Police in November last seeking protection no action was taken so far, he said.

Though now there were no cases pending against Rai, there was an imminent threat to his life and therefore the authorities are required to extend police protection, he said.

Justice B S Patil, after hearing the counsels, directed the Commissioner of Police to pass appropriate orders on Rai's representation within four weeks.