Bengaluru, Karnataka: Controversial city-based lawyer KN Jagadish Kumar was arrested by Kodigehalli police on Friday following allegations of caste abuse and making provocative remarks on his Instagram handle. The arrest came three days after an FIR was registered against him.
Complaint and charges
The complaint was filed by Manjunath, an activist, who alleged that Jagadish’s statements on Instagram were derogatory towards Scheduled Caste/Scheduled Tribe (SC/ST) communities and detrimental to communal harmony.
The FIR was lodged under Sections 196 and 299 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Police confirmed that his statements were being analysed to assess the potential to disrupt social peace and incite divisions between communities.
Content of the controversial video
According to the complaint, the remarks were made in a video posted on August 11. In it, Jagadish allegedly commented about Basanagowda Patil Yatnal, MLA from Vijayapura, and his family, suggesting in a derogatory tone that his sons should marry women from SC/ST and Muslim communities.
The complainant stated that Jagadish’s words were offensive, repeated multiple times, and implied discrimination against caste and religious groups.
Social backlash and community concerns
Manjunath, in his complaint, emphasised that the comments had caused “immense pain and discomfort” to the SC/ST community, portraying their women in a negative light. He further alleged that the remarks were an attempt to disturb peace and create hatred between communities, particularly among Hindus and Muslims, as well as within the Lingayat community.
Community leaders have condemned the statements, urging authorities to take strict action to prevent similar incidents that could disrupt social cohesion.
Previous controversies
Jagadish Kumar is known for his outspoken and often contentious presence on social media. He has previously drawn criticism for provocative comments, though this is among the most serious cases filed against him, given its communal implications.
Legal action and investigation
Police have remanded the lawyer to custody and are investigating whether further legal provisions may apply, including those under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, depending on the outcome of forensic analysis of the video.
Conclusion
With tensions surrounding caste and religious harmony in Karnataka, authorities are expected to handle the case with sensitivity while ensuring justice is delivered. The incident has sparked discussions about responsible use of social media and legal accountability for public figures.