Congress Suspends Rajeev Gowda After Threat to Woman Officer

• Congress suspends Rajeev Gowda over threat allegation
• Rajeev Gowda accused of abusing woman officer
• Congress disciplinary committee orders suspension

Karnataka, Bengaluru: The Karnataka Congress has suspended party leader Rajeev Gowda following serious allegations that he threatened and verbally abused a woman municipal officer. The action comes after an internal inquiry found the incident grave enough to warrant immediate disciplinary measures.

The controversy erupted after the Shidlaghatta municipal commissioner Amruthagowda removed a promotional banner of the film Cult starring Zaid Khan son of minister Zameer Ahmed Khan. Soon after the banner removal Rajeev Gowda allegedly called the officer and used abusive language while issuing threats.

According to party sources the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee disciplinary committee examined the complaint in detail. After reviewing the facts and considering the seriousness of the allegations the committee recommended suspension which was approved by the party leadership.

Chikkaballapur district in charge minister M C Sudhakar said the party had issued a show cause notice to Rajeev Gowda seeking an explanation. However as no response was received within the stipulated time the party proceeded with disciplinary action.

Senior leaders also reacted to the development expressing surprise over the incident. They stated that Rajeev Gowda was known to be soft spoken and that such behaviour was unexpected. Leaders added that even if there was disagreement over the banner removal there was no justification for threatening a woman officer.

The Congress has reiterated that it will not tolerate misconduct especially when it involves intimidation of public servants. Party leaders said strict action was necessary to send a clear message on discipline and accountability.