Police register FIR against BJP MLC N Ravikumar for derogatory comments against Kalaburagi Deputy Commissioner Fauzia Tarannum
NEW DELHI – The Karnataka Police have filed a formal complaint against BJP MLC N Ravikumar following his offensive and inflammatory remarks targeting Fauzia Tarannum, the Muslim Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Kalaburagi (Gulbarga). The FIR was lodged on Monday by local social activist Dattatreya, who accused Ravikumar of making objectionable statements that question the integrity and nationality of the 2014 batch IAS officer, as well as inciting communal tension in the city.
Ravikumar reportedly questioned whether DC Fauzia Tarannum was truly Indian or had come from Pakistan, a remark widely condemned for its communal overtones. The complaint also accuses him of refusing to acknowledge the Indian Constitution because of her Muslim identity.
The police have booked Ravikumar under multiple sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), including those dealing with promoting enmity between groups (Section 153A), outraging religious feelings (Sections 295 and 298), criminal intimidation (Section 506), and assault or obstruction of public servants (Sections 353 and 224). Additionally, charges under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act have been included.
Speaking on the matter, social activist Dattatreya stated, “His comments not only insult a respected officer but also threaten the peace of the community. It is unacceptable to question the patriotism of an Indian civil servant based on her religion.”
The FIR further mentions Ravikumar’s verbal attacks on police officers Chandrashekhar Tigadi, Nataraj Nade, and Shankargouda Patil, accusing them of dereliction of duty. Ravikumar allegedly claimed uncertainty about whether Kalaburagi was part of Karnataka or Pakistan, a statement that has caused unrest among the city’s residents.
The complaint also highlights threats directed towards the Minister of Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Priyank Kharge and local police officials, which have reportedly hampered their official duties. Ravikumar is accused of trying to stir public unrest by making derogatory remarks against Muslims and encouraging hatred towards a specific caste and religion. The complainant alleges that these remarks were made openly outside the Deputy Commissioner’s office on 24 May.
Minister Priyank Kharge, responding to the incident, condemned the comments and said, “Such divisive and baseless accusations have no place in Karnataka’s society. Our officers serve with dedication and deserve respect irrespective of their faith. Attempts to spread hatred will be dealt with strictly.”
Locals expressed concern over the BJP MLC’s provocative remarks. Zainab Begum, a community leader, said, “Fauzia Tarannum has worked hard for this city. Questioning her loyalty is an insult to all Indian Muslims who contribute to the country’s progress.”
This incident has once again brought to light the challenges faced by Muslim public officials in India, especially when certain political figures resort to communal narratives to polarise public opinion. Many observers believe such statements from elected representatives harm communal harmony and undermine the secular fabric of the nation.
Fauzia Tarannum, known for her professionalism and commitment, has not yet commented on the controversy, but sources close to her confirm she remains focused on her duties despite the provocation.
As the legal process unfolds, the Karnataka Police have assured swift action to ensure the matter is handled according to the law. A senior police official said, ‘We will investigate the case thoroughly and take action to maintain peace and order in the city.’
This episode underscores the need for responsible political discourse, especially when it concerns public servants who work for the welfare of all communities. Many voices in Kalaburagi and beyond have called for calm and urged citizens not to fall prey to divisive rhetoric.
