Udupi: BJP MLA Yashpal Suvarna appeared before the Udupi Town Police on Thursday night in connection with a hate speech case registered against him over his alleged remarks targeting Congress leader Rahul Gandhi during a BJP protest held in Udupi on July 28.

The MLA appeared before the investigating officer after the police served him with a notice directing him to cooperate with the investigation. He was questioned for about an hour before leaving the police station.

Case registered on Congress complaint

The case was registered following a complaint filed by the Udupi District Congress, which alleged that Yashpal Suvarna made a hate speech against Rahul Gandhi while addressing a protest organised by the Udupi district BJP in Udupi city on July 28.

The Congress has alleged that the remarks made by the MLA were defamatory, inflammatory and capable of disturbing communal harmony. Based on the complaint, the Udupi Town Police initiated legal proceedings and began an investigation into the matter.

Police issue notice

On Wednesday, the Udupi Town Police served a notice on Yashpal Suvarna at his residence, directing him to appear before the investigating officer for questioning in connection with the case.

The notice was issued as part of the ongoing investigation to obtain the MLA’s version regarding the allegations contained in the complaint.

Questioned for about an hour

Complying with the police notice, Yashpal Suvarna arrived at the Udupi Town Police Station at around 8.25 pm on Thursday.

During the questioning, police are learnt to have asked the MLA several questions relating to the speech delivered during the BJP protest. He responded to the queries and gave his statement to the investigating officer.

The interrogation lasted for approximately one hour, following which Suvarna left the police station at around 9.30 pm.

Investigation continues

Police said the investigation into the case is continuing.

Officials are expected to examine the statements of witnesses, review available video footage and gather other relevant evidence before deciding on the next course of action in accordance with the law.

The case stems from the political controversy surrounding the July 28 BJP protest in Udupi, which has led to complaints, counter-allegations and protests by both the BJP and the Congress.