Karnataka MLA’s Daughter Allegedly Slaps Woman SI at Temple

A controversy has erupted in Karnataka after the daughter of Tumakuru Rural BJP MLA B. Suresh Gowda was allegedly involved in an altercation with a woman police Sub-Inspector at a temple in Mandya district. The incident took place at the Sri Lakshmi Narasimhaswamy Temple in Arathi Ukkada, Srirangapatna taluk, during Bhima Amavasya celebrations, when thousands of devotees had gathered. According to the police complaint, Aishwarya attempted to enter the sanctum amid the heavy rush. Woman PSI Savitha B. Police Patil, who was deployed for security and crowd-control duties, reportedly stopped her and asked her to wait. During the argument that followed, Aishwarya allegedly slapped the officer and obstructed her from carrying out her official duties.

Following Savitha’s complaint, Kyathanahalli police registered a case against Aishwarya under several provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including sections relating to obstructing a public servant and assault. Aishwarya has reportedly also submitted a counter-complaint alleging inappropriate behaviour by the police officer. The incident has triggered widespread criticism, with questions being raised over VIP culture at religious places and the treatment of police personnel on duty. Responding to the controversy, MLA B. Suresh Gowda apologised for his daughter’s alleged conduct and said that if she had committed a mistake, appropriate action could be taken according to law. He also said that VIP darshan arrangements at temples should be reconsidered, stressing that everyone is equal before God.