Bengaluru, Jan 20 (NationPress) - The Karnataka High Court expressed strong disapproval towards Congress leader Rajeev Gowda on Tuesday, in relation to a case where he allegedly threatened and verbally abused a woman Municipal Commissioner via phone. The court also raised concerns regarding the government's inaction in filing more serious charges against him.

A bench led by Justice M. Nagaprasanna confronted the petitioner, Rajeev Gowda, while deliberating on a petition aimed at dismissing the FIR lodged against him. Currently, Rajeev Gowda is evading the law, with the petition submitted through his attorney.

The High Court questioned why BNS Sections 71 (pertaining to serious sexual offenses against women and children) and 79 (regarding words or actions intended to insult a woman's modesty) were not applied, given that Gowda reportedly used abusive language towards the female official.

“Does the petitioner hold no regard for women? How can he speak in such a manner? Once words are spoken, they cannot be retracted. A careless tongue can ruin everything,” the Bench remarked.

Furthermore, the court stated that simply offering an apology would not amend the mentality that led to such distress. The hearing was adjourned while the court reserved its decision.

Previously, Rajeev Gowda's legal representative, Vivek Reddy, claimed that his client had expressed remorse for his remarks made during the phone call with the Municipal Commissioner. He argued that Section 132 of the BNS Act was not relevant to this case. Reddy sought bail for Gowda, asserting his willingness to assist with the investigation.

The counsel also noted that Rajeev Gowda was ready to issue a public apology regarding the incident.

In his petition, Gowda alleged that police were stationed at his home and that a banner he had displayed was removed while others remained intact.

When the court inquired about the petitioner’s current location, his attorney admitted to having no information. The Bench instructed the Public Prosecutor to present all relevant details to the court.

Meanwhile, the police department faces mounting pressure due to its inability to locate and apprehend Rajeev Gowda.

There are allegations that the accused supports Food Minister K.H. Muniyappa, while Higher Education Minister K.C. Sudhakar has reportedly instructed the police to detain him.

Sources within the police have indicated that they are in a challenging position due to tensions between the two ministers, as Sudhakar is also the district in-charge minister for Chikkaballapur.

It is noteworthy that an audio clip surfaced last Wednesday, purportedly featuring Rajeev Gowda threatening and abusing Municipal Commissioner Amrutha Gowda via phone, prompting widespread outrage.

The Karnataka State Women's Commission has vehemently condemned the alleged incident and called for legal action against the accused.