Mysuru: K.R. Vidyadhar, an advocate from Madikeri, was arrested by Suntikoppa Police in Kodagu district for posting derogatory remarks about Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa, India’s first Commander-in-Chief of the Army, and General K.S. Thimayya, a former Chief of Army Staff. The comments were made under a fake account named ‘Srivatsa Bhat’ on social media.
Vidyadhar, known for his involvement in social organizations, was presented before the Judicial Magistrate First Class (JMFC) Court in Madikeri, where he was granted conditional bail. The arrest followed complaints from various Kodava organizations, including Bengaluru Kodava Samaja and the Kodagu District BJP, who were outraged by the offensive comments. Acting on these complaints, Kodagu SP K. Ramarajan formed a special team that swiftly apprehended Vidyadhar.
The objectionable remarks were reportedly shared in a WhatsApp group called Saptha Sagara (Kadalu). Following the complaints, cases were filed at several police stations, including R.T. Nagar and Rajarajeshwari Nagar. Additional complaints were also lodged by the United Kodava Organisation (UKO) and other local bodies, leading to charges under Sections 192, 353(2), and 319 of the Indian Penal Code.
The incident has sparked widespread condemnation. Mysuru-Kodagu MP Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar condemned the remarks, emphasizing the immense contributions of Field Marshal Cariappa and General Thimayya. Several prominent leaders, including Madikeri MLA Dr. Mantar Gowda and Virajpet MLA A.S. Ponnanna, also expressed strong disapproval and demanded swift action.
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