Following the escalating row over a road rage case involving an IAF officer and a local biker, former BJP MP Pratap Simha has stepped into the spotlight with bold remarks that have stirred intense public debate around migration, regional identity, and linguistic pride in Karnataka.

Simha didn’t mince words in his reaction, accusing national media—especially Delhi-based outlets—of pushing a biased narrative that paints Kannadigas as aggressors. “These North Indians don’t act this way in Chennai. Why not seek jobs in Kerala? Why only Bengaluru?” he questioned, adding fuel to an already heated controversy.

His statement, which has since gone viral, targeted North Indian migrants, suggesting they exploit the city’s job market without showing cultural respect. “You come here because you lack opportunities elsewhere. Don’t stretch the tolerance of Kannadigas,” he warned.

Simha doubled down on the importance of learning Kannada. “You’ve lived here for years for education and work. We’re not asking you to master it—just learn enough to communicate. If you won’t, stay where you are,” he declared, drawing applause from some and backlash from others.

The comments arrive amid heightened sensitivities over linguistic identity and Bengaluru’s cosmopolitan character. As voices rise on both sides, the debate underscores a deeper struggle over belonging and respect in a rapidly growing urban melting pot.