Is the Dignity of Karnataka's Additional SP Beyond Repair?
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Synopsis
Karnataka Additional SP Narayana V. Baramani refuses to retract his resignation after a public slap incident involving Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. Baramani highlights the emotional damage and humiliation he faced, raising concerns over the treatment of police officers. This situation has stirred significant discussions about authority and respect in the police force.
Key Takeaways
- Narayana V. Baramani's resignation highlights issues of dignity in law enforcement.
- The incident raises questions about respect for police officers from public figures.
- Emotional trauma can have lasting effects on officers and their families.
- The public's response can influence how such incidents are perceived.
- Accountability and support are crucial for maintaining trust in law enforcement.
Bengaluru, July 3 (NationPress) Narayana V. Baramani, the Additional SP of Dharwad district in Karnataka, has firmly stated that he will not retract his resignation, claiming that his dignity, which has been damaged after the public slap incident involving Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, cannot be recovered.
The incident took place on April 28 in Belagavi during a Congress convention, leading Baramani to submit his resignation on June 12.
Despite Congress appointing a senior minister to persuade him to reconsider, Baramani has remained resolute in his decision.
Recently, his resignation letter surfaced on social media, gaining widespread attention.
In the letter addressed to the Additional Chief Secretary of the Department of Home Affairs (Police Services) in the Government of Karnataka, Narayana Baramani reported that he is opting for voluntary retirement due to the humiliation inflicted by the Chief Minister.
He recounted, 'Chief Minister Siddaramaiah raised his hand at me in a threatening manner, trying to strike me. I instinctively stepped back, narrowly avoiding the slap,' stated the Additional SP.
Baramani expressed concern over the treatment of lower-ranking officers, questioning what their experience would be under such humiliation.
The emotional impact of the incident on him and his family was also highlighted. 'My relatives and former colleagues have expressed their outrage. I was so disturbed that I remained indoors. My wife and children were in tears upon seeing my condition. We spent an entire day in silence, and neither the Chief Minister nor anyone from his government or my department offered any consolation or support, exacerbating my emotional distress,' he explained.
On June 28, he was assigned security duty for a protest rally in Belagavi led by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah against the Centre's price hikes. He managed the stage security alongside his subordinate officers and personnel without any issues.
When the Chief Minister began his speech, a group of women in the audience suddenly protested with black flags against the Congress government. Another SP-ranked officer managed that area, and order was restored quickly.
At that moment, the Chief Minister shouted angrily, 'Who is this SP here?' despite no SP-ranked officer being present near the stage. Baramani approached to clarify, but as he neared, Siddaramaiah raised his hand in a threatening manner, attempting to strike him. He managed to avoid being slapped, as detailed in the officer's letter.
'I felt deeply humiliated. For a moment, I considered confronting the Chief Minister to voice my grievances, but I held back, aware of the potential public embarrassment it could cause. I chose silence. This incident gained extensive media coverage and went viral on social media, causing me significant mental trauma,' he emphasized.
Even upon returning to duty, the humiliation lingered during departmental and inter-departmental meetings.
Baramani has served in the Karnataka Police Department for 31 years, holding various positions from PSI to Additional SP.
Point of View
It's essential to approach this incident with a balanced lens. The actions of public figures, especially those in power, must uphold respect for all individuals, particularly those serving in law enforcement. The emotional and professional repercussions for officers like Narayana V. Baramani highlight a critical need for accountability and support within our institutions.
NationPress
03/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted Narayana V. Baramani to resign?
Narayana V. Baramani resigned due to a public incident where Chief Minister Siddaramaiah allegedly attempted to slap him, which he claims caused irreparable harm to his dignity.
What was the public's reaction to Baramani's resignation?
Baramani's resignation letter gained significant attention on social media, with many expressing outrage over his treatment and the broader implications for police dignity.
How long has Narayana V. Baramani served in the police force?
Narayana V. Baramani has served in the Karnataka Police Department for 31 years, holding various positions.
What are Baramani's concerns regarding lower-ranking officers?
Baramani expressed concern that if he, as an Additional SP, can face such humiliation, it raises questions about the treatment and respect for lower-ranking officers.
What emotional impact did this incident have on Baramani and his family?
Baramani reported significant emotional distress, stating that his family was affected, with his wife and children in tears and the incident causing them deep anguish.
