Did BJP MLC N. Ravikumar Make Derogatory Remarks About Chief Secretary Shalini Rajneesh?
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Synopsis
In a recent turn of events, Karnataka Police have filed an FIR against BJP MLC N. Ravikumar for alleged derogatory remarks about Chief Secretary Shalini Rajneesh. The incident has sparked outrage among IAS officers and political leaders, demanding accountability and an apology. How will this impact the political landscape in Karnataka?
Key Takeaways
- FIR filed against BJP MLC N. Ravikumar for derogatory comments.
- Karnataka IAS Officers' Association demands an apology.
- Political tensions rise in Karnataka.
- Ravikumar claims remarks were misrepresented.
- Congress leaders push for suspension of Ravikumar.
Bengaluru, July 3 (NationPress) The Karnataka Police have lodged an FIR against Chief Whip and BJP MLC N. Ravikumar on Thursday for allegedly making derogatory comments about Chief Secretary Shalini Rajneesh.
The Karnataka IAS Officers' Association has strongly condemned Ravikumar's remarks and demanded an apology without any conditions.
The controversial statement was made on July 1 during an event attended by the Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Council, Chalavadi Narayanaswamy, along with police officials.
In expressing his dissatisfaction over Chief Secretary Shalini Rajneesh not being present to receive a submission from a BJP delegation, Ravikumar allegedly ridiculed her, claiming she is preoccupied during the day with the Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s work and only fulfills her duties at night.
The FIR was registered by the Vidhana Soudha police in Bengaluru under Sections 351 (3), 75 (3), and 79 of the BNS Act. Naagaratna, a social worker, filed the complaint.
The Karnataka IAS Officers' Association stated, "The Association vehemently condemns the derogatory and offensive remarks made by MLC Ravikumar against the Chief Secretary of the government.
The Chief Secretary holds the highest civil position in Karnataka and is a respected officer known for her integrity, dedication, and exemplary public service,” the association emphasized.
They have demanded a public and unconditional apology from Ravikumar and called for immediate legal proceedings under relevant laws. Furthermore, they have requested a formal resolution of censure in the Legislative Council.
"Civil servants must be allowed to perform their duties without fear, disrespect, or political coercion. We call on the government to maintain institutional dignity and take swift and decisive action regarding this matter," the association asserted.
In the meantime, a second delegation of senior Congress leaders, including Saleem Ahmed, B. K. Hariprasad, Manjunath Bhandari, Nagraj Yadav, Balkis Banu, Mallajamma, Ramoji Gowda, D. T. Srinivas, and Ramesh Babu, met with the Chairman of the Legislative Council, Basavaraj Horatti, to submit a complaint requesting the suspension of Ravikumar's membership.
Ravikumar had previously sparked controversy by suggesting that Kalaburagi's Deputy Commissioner Fauzia Tarannum might have origins in Pakistan.
In response to the uproar, Ravikumar stated that he did not make any derogatory remarks about her.
"I am taken aback by the dissemination of selective video clips and claims in various media alleging that I spoke disrespectfully about the Chief Secretary. I have been in Hyderabad on official duties for the past three days," he remarked.
"On June 30, 2025, I protested alongside the Opposition Leader in the Legislative Council Chalavadi Narayanaswamy and other Dalit leaders in front of the Gandhi statue near Vidhana Soudha, condemning the Forest Department for seizing land in Kadugodi, Mahadevapura constituency, which Dalit families have cultivated for years. We have been attempting to meet with the Hon’ble Chief Minister and Hon’ble Chief Secretary to draw attention to this issue, but neither has been accessible.
He further clarified, "I simply mentioned that the Chief Secretary is busy — I did not say anything that could be interpreted as derogatory toward her."
"During the protest, I did not address the Chief Secretary nor did I speak to the media, so the notion of making any derogatory remarks against her is unfounded," Ravikumar asserted.
"The information being spread about me is entirely baseless, misleading, malicious, and defamatory. Apart from stating that the Chief Secretary is busy with government duties, I have not made any derogatory comments against her. I categorically reject the allegations."
Point of View
It is essential for leaders to maintain a respectful discourse, especially regarding public service officials. The allegations against BJP MLC N. Ravikumar bring to light the critical importance of upholding dignity in political dialogue. The Karnataka IAS Officers' Association's condemnation resonates with the need for accountability and respect within political frameworks. This incident serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between political expression and professional decorum.
NationPress
03/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the FIR against N. Ravikumar?
The FIR was filed due to alleged derogatory remarks made by N. Ravikumar regarding Chief Secretary Shalini Rajneesh.
What is the response from the Karnataka IAS Officers' Association?
The Karnataka IAS Officers' Association has condemned Ravikumar's remarks and demanded an unconditional apology, as well as legal action.
How did Ravikumar respond to the allegations?
Ravikumar stated that he did not make any derogatory remarks and expressed shock at the claims circulating in the media.
What actions have other political leaders taken?
Congress leaders have submitted a complaint urging for Ravikumar's suspension from the Legislative Council.
What are the implications of this controversy?
This controversy could impact political relations in Karnataka and may lead to further demands for accountability in political discourse.
