A complaint has been filed against Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah over his angry gesture at a police officer. The act has been described as “unconstitutional conduct,” raising concerns about misuse of authority and public decorum.
Right to Information (RTI) activist Bhimappa Gadad lodged a complaint against Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, alleging that he raised his hand at Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) Narayan Baramani during a Congress party protest at CPEd Grounds in Dharwad on April 28, 2025.
The protest was organized to voice opposition to rising prices under the central government.
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In a complaint submitted to the Camp Police Station on Thursday, Gadad asserted that as Chief Minister, Siddaramaiah should represent the people and inspire officials to perform their duties effectively.
However, he accused Siddaramaiah of using cheap language and attempting to assault a uniformed police officer, describing this conduct as unconstitutional.
Gadad stated that the incident has created fear among government officials.
Referencing Section 132 of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita, Gadad pointed out that assaulting or using criminal force against a public servant to prevent them from fulfilling their duties is a punishable offense.
The law stipulates a punishment of up to two years in prison, a fine, or both. The complaint includes video evidence and media reports pertaining to the incident.
Gadad has requested that a case be filed against Siddaramaiah and mentioned that he has also submitted a separate complaint to the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) in Delhi, urging the commission to investigate the Chief Minister’s actions.
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Possible Legal Provisions That May Apply
- Section 353 IPC – This section addresses assault or the use of criminal force against a public servant performing their duties. If the gesture involved threats or intimidation, this provision could be relevant.
- Punishment: Up to 2 years imprisonment, a fine, or both.
- Section 504 IPC – This pertains to intentional insults aimed at provoking a breach of peace. If the gesture was deemed sufficiently offensive to incite the officer or disrupt public order, this section may apply.
- Punishment: Up to 2 years imprisonment, a fine, or both.
- Section 506 IPC – This addresses criminal intimidation. If the gesture involved threats, even if non-verbal, intended to instill fear, this provision could be invoked.
- Punishment: Up to 2 years imprisonment (or up to 7 years for more severe threats).
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