Udupi: Udupi District Congress Campaign Committee President Harish Kini has lodged a police complaint against BJP MLA Yashpal Suvarna, alleging that he made defamatory, inflammatory and provocative remarks during a protest held in Udupi on July 28.
The complaint seeks legal action against the legislator, alleging that his speech contained statements capable of inciting hatred, disturbing communal harmony and provoking clashes between political workers.
Complaint over protest speech
According to the complaint, the protest was organised near the Jatka Stand, close to the Service Bus Stand in Udupi city at around 11 am on July 28.
Harish Kini alleged that the demonstration was held against the Congress party and students who had participated in the NEET protest.
During his address to the gathering, Yashpal Suvarna allegedly referred to Rahul Gandhi as a “drug addict” and accused the Congress leader of spreading falsehoods and attempting to create distrust and disrespect among the public.
The complainant has alleged that these remarks were defamatory and intended to malign the image of the Congress leader.
Allegation of provocative statement
The complaint further alleges that the BJP MLA made a controversial statement claiming that “just as the Babri Masjid was demolished, Rahul Gandhi’s dynasty would also be destroyed in the same manner.”
According to the complainant, the statement amounted to a threat and was capable of promoting hatred and encouraging violence.
Harish Kini has urged the police to examine the remarks and initiate action in accordance with the law.
Claims of incitement
The complaint also accuses Yashpal Suvarna of allegedly provoking BJP workers present at the protest and instigating them against Congress workers.
According to the complaint, the speech was intended to create unrest and had the potential to trigger communal tension and clashes between groups.
It further alleges that the MLA delivered remarks capable of disturbing communal harmony and promoting discord between religious communities.
Alleged remarks against students
In addition to the political allegations, the complaint states that Yashpal Suvarna allegedly used abusive language against students who had taken part in the NEET protest.
Harish Kini has claimed that the MLA also threatened the protesting students during his speech.
The complaint further states that BJP workers present at the venue applauded and supported the alleged remarks made by the MLA.
Legal action sought
The Congress leader has requested the police to register a case and initiate legal proceedings against Yashpal Suvarna and others in connection with the alleged statements made during the protest.
Police have received the complaint, and further action will be taken in accordance with the law after examining the allegations and the available material.
As of now, there has been no official response from BJP MLA Yashpal Suvarna regarding the allegations contained in the complaint.