What prompted Congress to seek clarification after an alleged abuse incident involving a Municipal Commissioner in Karnataka?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Congress leadership demands accountability
- Allegations involve abuse towards a female officer
- Public outrage prompts protests
- Immediate action requested by party leadership
- Karnataka State Women's Commission emphasizes legal action
Bengaluru, Jan 16 (NationPress) Following a disturbing incident involving a woman Municipal Commissioner, the Congress leadership is demanding clarification from its Karnataka unit. This incident, reportedly involving threats and abusive language from a party leader, has sparked significant public outrage.
On Friday, sources indicated that the national Congress leadership is treating the situation with utmost seriousness, anticipating potential damage to the party's reputation.
Discussions have taken place with Deputy Chief Minister and State Congress President D. K. Shivakumar, with a detailed report now being requested.
In light of these events, the Congress has served a notice to the accused, Rajeev Gowda, who is currently evading authorities.
The party has mandated that he provide a response within a week, cautioning him about possible disciplinary measures.
Gowda is facing multiple FIRs related to this case.
In the meantime, a protest has been organized by the District Government Employees' Association, calling for Gowda's arrest, while the silence of Minister for Municipal Administration and Haj, Rahim Khan, is also being scrutinized.
Efforts to locate Gowda have included police raids on his home and the residences of his acquaintances and family members.
The controversy erupted after a leaked audio clip surfaced, allegedly featuring a Karnataka Congress leader from Chikkaballapur district verbally abusing and threatening a woman Municipal Commissioner.
Rajeev Gowda is identified as a KPCC state coordinator and a defeated Congress candidate from the Sidlaghatta Assembly constituency.
Nagalaxmi Choudhary, Chairperson of the Karnataka State Women's Commission, condemned the incident, stating, "No individual is above the law, regardless of their status as a public representative or influential person.
The Karnataka State Commission for Women has strongly denounced the use of abusive language and alleged intimidation against a female officer.
In the case of the Sidlaghatta incident with Commissioner Amrutha, directives have been issued to the relevant authorities to pursue appropriate legal actions and submit a report, emphasizing zero tolerance for harassment against women," she stated.