Sat Jan 17 13:03:47 UTC 2026: # Political Storm Erupts Over Alleged Abuse of Municipal Commissioner in Sidlaghatta
The Story:
On January 17, 2026, K. Sudhakar, Member of Parliament for Chikkaballapur, formally requested the National Commission for Women (NCW) to intervene in a case involving alleged verbal abuse and threats directed at Sidlaghatta City Municipal Commissioner Amrutha Gowda. The accused is Congress leader Rajeev Gowda, a KPCC State coordinator and former Sidlaghatta Assembly candidate. The complaint stems from an audio clip circulating in the district, purportedly capturing Rajeev Gowda verbally abusing the Commissioner after the removal of an unauthorised banner.
Sudhakar characterized the incident as a serious affront to the dignity of women in public service and urged the NCW to take suo motu cognizance, seeking a detailed report from the Karnataka state government and ensuring a fair investigation, free from political interference.
Key Points:
- K. Sudhakar, MP for Chikkaballapur, has petitioned the NCW.
- The complaint alleges verbal abuse and threats against Sidlaghatta City Municipal Commissioner Amrutha Gowda.
- The accused is Congress leader Rajeev Gowda.
- The alleged abuse followed the removal of an “unauthorised banner”.
- Sudhakar seeks an investigation free from political interference.
Key Takeaways:
- The incident highlights the potential vulnerability of public officials, particularly women, to abuse and intimidation by political figures.
- The complaint underscores the ongoing tensions between political influence and impartial governance at the local level.
- The NCW’s involvement could set a precedent for addressing similar incidents of abuse against public servants.
First Piper 