The Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) has recommended the suspension of its leader Rajeev Gowda for allegedly threatening and abusing a woman municipal commissioner. The incident, which involved the Sidlaghatta Municipal Commissioner, has led to embarrassment for the ruling party in the state.
G.C. Chandrashekhar, the KPCC Working President (Administration), suggested to Congress Discipline Committee Chairman K. Rahman Khan that action be taken against Rajeev Gowda. The recommendation for suspension was made after the accusations against Gowda were found to be true.
Rajeev Gowda, who contested as the Congress candidate from Sidlaghatta in the last Assembly elections, is known to be close to Minister for Food K.H. Muniyappa and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar.
A letter addressed to Rahman Khan highlighted that Rajeev Gowda allegedly made threatening remarks and used abusive language towards the Municipal Commissioner over a matter related to banners for a private program. Despite a notice issued to him on January 15, 2026, he has not responded to the KPCC.
The statements made by Rajeev Gowda have been widely reported in the media, causing significant embarrassment to the party and its leadership. As a result, the KPCC President has directed that the matter of suspending Rajeev Gowda from the party be referred to the KPCC Discipline Committee.
The Karnataka High Court recently criticized Rajeev Gowda in connection with the case involving threats and abuse towards the woman municipal commissioner. The court questioned why serious charges were not brought against him and remarked on the importance of respecting women. Rajeev Gowda is currently absconding, and the case is pending a decision by the court.
