Bengaluru: Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge has hit back at former BJP MP Pratap Simha over his threat to “storm” a police station, warning that anyone who obstructs the police while they are enforcing law and order will face strict legal action.
The war of words erupted after a video purportedly showing T. Narasipura Police Inspector Dhananjay making remarks at a peace meeting ahead of Ganesh Chaturthi went viral on social media.
The inspector reportedly spoke about the need to follow designated routes for Ganesh processions, disclose the route in advance and adhere to restrictions concerning firecrackers and DJ-style loudspeakers near mosques. He also reportedly said security personnel would be deployed in sensitive areas to prevent any untoward incidents.
However, the officer’s manner of addressing the gathering drew criticism, with allegations that his remarks were intimidating towards Hindu youths.
Reacting to the viral video, former MP Pratap Simha criticised the inspector and challenged him over the reported remarks. Simha reportedly said that if the officer spoke in such a manner again, he would storm the police station.
Kharge responded sharply to the statement in a post on social media platform X.
“If anyone storms the police station, arrangements will be made—free of cost—to send them straight to Parappana Agrahara,” Kharge said, referring to Bengaluru’s central prison.
Home minister warns against obstructing police
Kharge also took a personal swipe at Simha, describing him in disparaging terms and accusing him of making provocative statements for media attention.
The Home Minister said the state Home Department would not hesitate to initiate strict legal action against anyone obstructing police personnel in the discharge of their law-and-order duties.
He further said attempts to exploit sensitive situations to disturb social harmony would not be tolerated and asserted that the morale and authority of the police force would be protected.
The remarks come amid heightened political debate over arrangements for Ganesh Chaturthi processions and the enforcement of restrictions in sensitive areas.
