Karnataka Congress Demands Explanation from Rajeev Gowda Over Abuse Allegations
The Karnataka Congress has taken formal action against one of its own leaders. On Thursday, the party issued a showcause notice to Rajeev Gowda. This move comes amid growing demands for his expulsion.
Rajeev Gowda faces serious allegations of verbally abusing a woman officer. The controversy centers on an audio clip that leaked to the media. In the recording, Gowda purportedly uses expletives against Shidlaghatta City Municipal Council Commissioner Amrutha Gowda.
The Incident and Immediate Fallout
The alleged abuse occurred after the commissioner removed an illegal banner. The audio clip quickly spread, sparking widespread outrage. Commissioner Amrutha Gowda filed a police complaint based on this recording.
Police booked Rajeev Gowda on Wednesday, just one day before the party's notice. The case has now become a major political flashpoint in Karnataka.
Opposition parties seized the opportunity to criticize the state government. The BJP and JD(S) launched sharp attacks. They claimed the incident shows a deterioration of law and order under the current administration.
Congress Party's Disciplinary Action
Congress working president G C Chandrashekar signed the showcause notice. The document states the leaked audio caused embarrassment to the party. It specifically mentions Gowda's use of abusive language toward the woman officer.
The notice demands an explanation from Rajeev Gowda within one week. Failure to respond will result in disciplinary proceedings. This could potentially include suspension or expulsion from the party.
Rajeev Gowda is no stranger to political challenges. He lost his maiden election in 2023. At that time, he was the Congress candidate from Shidlaghatta constituency in Chikkaballapur district.
Women's Groups Condemn Feudal Behavior
The National Federation of Indian Women (NFIW) issued a strong statement. They condemned Rajeev Gowda's conduct in unambiguous terms. The organization accused him of displaying feudal arrogance.
NFIW argued that Gowda's actions undermined the dignity of women officers. They highlighted specific threats mentioned in the audio. According to their statement, Gowda threatened to set fire to the municipal office and incite riots.
These threats caused visible emotional distress to Commissioner Amrutha Gowda. The women's federation has made two clear demands:
- Legal proceedings against Rajeev Gowda without political interference
- Immediate expulsion from the Congress party
The NFIW emphasized that political maneuvering should not influence this case. They want the home department to pursue legal action independently.
Institutional Responses Mount
The Karnataka State Commission for Women has also entered the fray. On Wednesday, they wrote to the Chikkaballapur superintendent of police. Their letter demands appropriate legal action against the Congress leader.
This institutional pressure adds to the growing chorus for accountability. Multiple entities now seek consequences for the alleged misconduct.
The case continues to develop as the one-week deadline approaches. All eyes remain on Rajeev Gowda's response to the showcause notice. The political ramifications in Karnataka could be significant.
