Rajiv Gowda Arrested After Abusing Woman Civic Official Over Illegal Banner Row

The political and administrative controversy surrounding the removal of an illegal movie banner in Karnataka escalated sharply with the arrest of Congress leader Rajiv Gowda on charges of abusing and threatening a woman civic official. The arrest followed the circulation of an audio clip that triggered widespread outrage across political and civil society circles.

The incident reportedly stemmed from the removal of an unauthorised movie banner that featured the son of Karnataka minister Zamir Ahmed Khan. Civic authorities had taken action against the banner as part of an enforcement drive against illegal hoardings, a routine administrative process carried out by municipal bodies.

According to investigators, Rajiv Gowda reacted angrily to the banner’s removal and allegedly used obscene language while threatening Amruta Gowda, a senior civic official. The purported phone conversation, which later went viral on mainstream and social media platforms, captured verbal abuse and intimidation directed at the officer for performing her official duties.

Following the public backlash, a police complaint was registered against Gowda under multiple sections, including criminal intimidation, obstructing a public servant, and using abusive language. As the case progressed, Gowda sought anticipatory bail, which was rejected by a lower court. The High Court subsequently refused to quash the FIR, clearing the way for his arrest.

Police officials said that after legal relief was denied, Gowda went incommunicado and remained absconding for nearly two weeks. A coordinated operation eventually led to his arrest near the Karnataka–Kerala border, where he was apprehended and taken into custody.

The Congress party moved swiftly to distance itself from the controversy. Soon after the audio clip surfaced, Gowda was dismissed from the party, signalling an attempt to contain political damage. Party sources indicated that the language used in the recording was inconsistent with organisational values and could not be defended under any circumstances.

The episode also drew attention at the highest levels of the state government. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah was briefed on the matter, after which law enforcement agencies were directed to take action strictly in accordance with the law. Officials stressed that no individual, regardless of political affiliation, would be allowed to interfere with administrative functioning or intimidate government officers.

Women’s rights groups and civil servants’ associations condemned the incident, calling it a reflection of the pressures faced by officials enforcing civic regulations. Several organisations demanded stronger safeguards for women officers and zero tolerance for political intimidation.

The case has reignited debate over the influence of political actors in municipal governance and the challenges faced by officials while implementing regulations against illegal constructions and hoardings. Civic bodies across Karnataka have in recent years intensified crackdowns on unauthorised banners due to safety risks and visual pollution.

As the legal process moves forward, Rajiv Gowda remains in custody and is expected to be produced before a court. Investigators are examining additional evidence, including call records and witness statements, to determine the full scope of the alleged intimidation.

The incident stands as a reminder of the legal and ethical boundaries governing political conduct and the importance of protecting officials tasked with enforcing public law.