The petition was moved within an hour after the High Court gave Rahul protection from arrest.

His lawyer highlighted the High Court order and sought a favourable verdict. The anticipatory bail plea was moved in the second case after the police appointed a special team to probe the case.

The department had appointed AIG G Poonkuzhali to lead the team that would investigate the complaint filed by a 23-year-old woman, who is a resident of Bengaluru. Poonkuzhali, who is now attached to the police headquarters, will directly monitor the probe, while the investigation will be headed by a crime branch DySP.

The team also comprises an inspector, two sub-inspectors and women officers. Police sources said they have got in touch with the victim, who agreed to cooperate with the investigation.

She has been told to communicate a convenient time and place to get her statements recorded, sources added.