Purported audio recordings of a Karnataka Congress leader from Chikkaballapur district allegedly verbally abusing and threatening a woman Municipal Commissioner have caused uproar in the state. The incident, stemming from a dispute over a removed banner, has become a significant embarrassment for the ruling party. The controversy follows a recent clash between BJP and Congress supporters in Ballari that led to the death of a Congress worker.
The accused, identified as Rajeev Gowda, a local Congress leader and KPCC state coordinator, reportedly used abusive language and threats towards Sidlaghatta Municipal Commissioner Amrutha Gowda over the phone. The Commissioner filed a complaint alleging that the threats were made after the municipal authorities took down an unauthorized banner. In the complaint, it is claimed that Gowda threatened to set the Commissioner on fire, beat her with slippers, and incite riots.
In the alleged audio clips, Gowda is heard demanding the reinstallation of the removed banner and making menacing statements towards the Commissioner. Despite being addressed respectfully by the officer, Gowda continues with his threats and warns of dire consequences if his demands are not met. The issue has escalated into a political controversy, with the BJP calling for Gowda’s arrest under the Goonda Act.
