The Karnataka High Court rejected a petition by Congress leader Rajeev Gowda to dismiss the FIR lodged against him for allegedly using abusive language and threats towards a woman Municipal Commissioner over a banner removal in Sidlaghatta town. Rajeev Gowda, who contested the previous Assembly elections in Sidlaghatta, is currently evading authorities. Despite his plea for bail, objections have been raised by the prosecution in the Second Additional District and Sessions Court in Chikkaballapur.
The High Court criticized Rajeev Gowda for his conduct in the case, questioning why severe charges under Sections 71 and 79 were not pressed against him for his derogatory remarks towards a female officer. The Bench expressed dismay over his disrespectful language towards women and emphasized the irreversible impact of spoken words. The court highlighted that even an apology would not erase the harm caused, reserving its decision for a later date.
Following the incident, the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) recommended Rajeev Gowda’s suspension, acknowledging the negative publicity it brought to the party. The KPCC President instructed the matter to be reviewed by the Discipline Committee for immediate action against Rajeev Gowda. The party expressed deep concern over the widespread media coverage of Gowda’s statements, leading to significant embarrassment for the party and its leadership.
