A man hurled a slipper at Congress MLA Pradeep Eshwar during the Kempegowda Jayanti programme in Chikkaballapur on 28 June 2026. The incident occurred when a section of the audience, primarily JD(S) workers and members of the Vokkaliga community, demanded an apology from Eshwar for his recent remarks against Union Minister H D Kumaraswamy.
Attack during Kempegowda Jayanti event
The event was underway when tensions escalated. The audience, angered by Eshwar's comments, began shouting slogans and demanding he apologize. Amid the commotion, a man from the crowd threw a slipper at the MLA. Police personnel deployed at the venue immediately intervened, wielding canes to disperse the agitated crowd. The situation was brought under control without further violence.
Background of the controversy
Eshwar, a combative Congress leader, had recently made remarks targeting Union Minister H D Kumaraswamy, a prominent figure from the JD(S) and a leader of the Vokkaliga community. The comments sparked outrage among JD(S) workers and community members, who viewed them as disrespectful. The demand for an apology was central to the protest at the event.
Police response and aftermath
The police acted swiftly to prevent the situation from escalating. After the slipper throwing, they used canes to push back the crowd and restore order. No injuries were reported, and the programme continued after the disruption. Eshwar later condemned the attack, calling it an undemocratic act. The police have registered a case and are investigating the incident. The attacker's identity has not been officially confirmed, but witnesses said he was a JD(S supporter.
