A political row has erupted in Karnataka after the Vidhana Soudha police registered an FIR against BJP MLC and Chief Whip N. Ravikumar for allegedly making derogatory comments about Chief Secretary Shalini Rajneesh. The remarks were reportedly made during a protest on July 1, sparking widespread criticism from bureaucrats and political circles.

IAS Association Slams Remarks

The Karnataka IAS Officers’ Association condemned the comments, labelling them “derogatory and offensive.” They highlighted Dr. Rajneesh’s integrity and public service record, demanding an unconditional public apology, legal action, and a censure resolution in the Legislative Council.

The association asserted that “civil servants must be allowed to function without fear, insult, or political pressure,” urging the government to safeguard institutional dignity.

Background of the Incident

During a protest near Vidhana Soudha, Ravikumar allegedly mocked the Chief Secretary’s absence, insinuating she was preoccupied with the Chief Minister’s work during the day and only performed her duties at night. This triggered a formal complaint by social worker Naagaratna, based on which police filed an FIR under Sections 351(3), 75(3), and 79 of the BNS Act.

Ravikumar reportedly made the remarks in the presence of Opposition Leader Chalavadi Narayanaswamy and police officials.

Political Fallout

A second Congress delegation, including senior leaders like Saleem Ahmed and B.K. Hariprasad, met Legislative Council Chairman Basavaraj Horatti, urging suspension of Ravikumar’s membership over repeated controversial statements — including a prior remark about Kalaburagi DC Fauzia Tarannum.

Ravikumar Denies Allegations

Responding to the storm, Ravikumar denied making any insulting remarks. “I never used derogatory language. The video clips being circulated are misleading and selectively edited,” he claimed, adding that he was in Hyderabad for official work.

He clarified that during the protest over Dalit land rights in Kadugodi, he merely noted that the Chief Secretary was “busy” and didn’t speak to the media at all.