Two FIRs Filed Against Karnataka Congress Leader Rajeev Gowda in Shidlaghatta
Karnataka Congress leader Rajeev Gowda now faces serious legal trouble. Police have registered two separate First Information Reports against him in Shidlaghatta town. The cases involve allegations of verbal abuse, criminal intimidation, and attempts to disturb public order.
Allegations from Municipal Commissioner
The first FIR comes from Amrutha Gowda, the Shidlaghatta City Municipal Council Commissioner. She filed a detailed complaint against the Congress leader. According to her statement, the controversy began on January 13. Banners featuring Rajeev Gowda's image appeared at multiple locations including Kote Circle without proper permission.
These unauthorized banners reportedly obstructed traffic flow in the area. Some of them even fell onto the road surface. Municipal staff removed the banners as part of their routine duties.
The situation escalated on January 12. Rajeev Gowda allegedly called Commissioner Amrutha Gowda directly. During this telephone conversation, he is accused of using abusive language. He demanded immediate reinstallation of the removed banners. The commissioner claims he threatened civic staff members during the call.
More seriously, Rajeev Gowda allegedly warned about mobilizing people from multiple wards. He spoke about inciting unrest and damaging public property. The complaint mentions possible obstruction of city council functions. Commissioner Amrutha Gowda stated the call caused severe mental distress to her and her staff members.
Police have registered this FIR under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023. These include sections 132 for assaulting or using criminal force against a public servant, 224 for threat of injury to a public servant, 352 for intentional insult with intent to provoke breach of peace, 351(3) for criminal intimidation, and 56 for abetment.
Second Complaint from JD(S) Leader
The second FIR originates from N C Srinivasa Gowda, a farmer and taluk vice-president of the JD(S). His complaint adds further details to the ongoing controversy. According to his statement, during the same telephone call, Rajeev Gowda made provocative statements.
The Congress leader allegedly abused Shidlaghatta MLA B N Ravikumar during the conversation. He falsely blamed the MLA for the removal of the banners according to the complaint. Rajeev Gowda reportedly threatened to mobilize people from 31 different wards.
The JD(S) leader's complaint mentions threats to damage government offices and incite violence. It also alleges Rajeev Gowda made indecent remarks against women government officials. A purported audio recording of the controversial call has circulated widely on social media platforms. This audio has raised significant concerns among local residents.
Police registered this second FIR under sections 352 and 353(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023. Section 352 deals with intentional insult with intent to provoke breach of peace. Section 353(2) covers offences related to public mischief from false statements.
Political Fallout and Current Status
The controversy has created significant political ripples in Karnataka. The Karnataka Congress party responded swiftly to the allegations. On Thursday, the party issued a formal show-cause notice to Rajeev Gowda. This notice addresses his alleged violation of party discipline.
Authorities have confirmed that Rajeev Gowda is currently absconding. Police investigations into both FIRs are actively progressing. The cases highlight growing tensions between political figures and administrative officials in the region.
Local residents in Shidlaghatta have expressed concern about the situation. The circulation of the alleged audio recording has intensified public discussion. Many await further developments in these legal cases against the Congress leader.
