BENGALURU: Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) working president and MLC Manjunatha Bhandary on Wednesday said that strict legal action will be initiated against Udupi MLA Yashpal Suvarna over his alleged “hateful, derogatory and provocative” remarks against Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi.
Bhandary said that the Karnataka government has taken the matter seriously and that all aspects of the issue are being examined before action is taken in accordance with the law.
The Congress leader alleged that Suvarna, during a public programme organised by the Udupi district BJP, made derogatory remarks against Rahul Gandhi and threatened to “destroy” his family lineage.
The Udupi District Congress Committee has file an FIR late last night against Yashpal suvarna.
pic.twitter.com/LHHFH5uXM7— Lavanya Ballal Jain official (@LavanyaBallal) July 29, 2026
“Such statements are highly condemnable. Video evidence of the speech is also available. Therefore, the concerned investigating agencies must treat the matter with utmost seriousness and initiate appropriate legal action in accordance with the law”, Bhandary said.
He also criticised other BJP MLAs from Udupi district who were allegedly present at the programme for not condemning the remarks, saying that their silence could be viewed as tacit support. Bhandary said that political differences have a legitimate place in a democracy, but personal attacks, hate speech and threats cannot be justified.
He further said that a public representative who has taken an oath to uphold the Constitution should maintain the dignity of the office and refrain from making such statements. Bhandary said he would urgently discuss the matter with the Home Minister and request appropriate directions to the police authorities to initiate legal proceedings.
He expressed confidence that fair and stringent action would be taken against those found guilty in accordance with the law, without yielding to any pressure. (ANI)
