Controversy Erupts Over BJP MLA's Alleged Hate Speech in Karnataka

BJP MLA Faces Legal Action for Alleged Hate Speech

In Karnataka's Yadgir district, senior BJP legislator Basangouda Patil Yatnal is once again at the center of controversy. On Wednesday, police reported that a case has been filed against him for allegedly delivering a 'hate speech' during the Shivaji Jayanti celebrations.

According to police, the incident occurred on February 21 during a grand procession in Gurumathkal town, where Yatnal was the chief guest at the event.

The First Information Report (FIR) states that Yatnal made several controversial remarks during his speech. He reportedly quoted a Hindi poem targeting a specific community and made comments regarding Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru.

Additionally, he allegedly referenced 'love jihad' while making derogatory remarks about certain historical figures.

Following his speech, there was a strong backlash on news and social media platforms, with many accusing the leader of disrupting communal harmony. The district police office sought legal advice after reviewing the video recording of the speech and preparing a transcript.

Based on the legal opinion received, a case was registered on February 23 under various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), including Section 196 (promoting enmity between different groups on grounds of religion, race, place of birth, residence, etc.) and Section 299 (deliberate and malicious acts intended to outrage religious feelings).

The police confirmed that a case has been filed against the legislator at the Gurumathkal police station, and an investigation is underway.