The Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) has suspended its leader Rajeev Gowda for allegedly threatening and abusing a woman municipal commissioner over a banner removal. The suspension was ordered by the KPCC Disciplinary Committee following a meeting in Bengaluru. Rajeev Gowda, who contested the last Assembly elections from Sidlaghatta, is currently evading authorities in this case.
The KPCC had recommended Rajeev Gowda’s suspension earlier in the week, which garnered national attention and caused embarrassment to the ruling party in Karnataka. The party expressed deep concern over the statements made by Gowda, which were widely publicized, leading to significant party and leadership embarrassment. The KPCC President instructed the matter to be reviewed by the Disciplinary Committee for immediate action.
In a related development, the Karnataka High Court rejected a petition by Rajeev Gowda seeking to dismiss the FIR against him for allegedly using abusive language and threats towards the woman commissioner. The court had previously criticized Gowda for his actions and questioned the government’s handling of the case. Despite being absconding, Gowda’s advocate filed the petition on his behalf.
During the court proceedings, Justice M. Nagaprasanna reprimanded Gowda for his disrespectful behavior towards the woman officer and questioned why more severe charges were not brought against him. The court emphasized the irreversible impact of hurtful words and reserved its decision on the case. The matter was adjourned for further orders.
