New Delhi: Karnataka BJP Member of Legislative Council (MLC) N Ravikumar has been booked for allegedly making a derogatory remark against Kalaburagi Deputy Commissioner Fouzia Tarannum. He referred to her as “Pakistani” during the BJP protest on May 24.
This comment has sparked widespread controversy that has prompted the Indian Administrative Services (IAS) Officers’ Association to demand an apology. In a statement, the association condemned the remarks as baseless and unjustified. It further stated that such statements malign the dignity of committed civil servants and amount to harassment.
FIR filed, CM reacts
“Remarks made by Ravikumar against her are baseless, unjustified, and entirely devoid of rationale. Such provocative and false statements not only malign the dignity of committed civil servants but also inflict severe mental trauma and amount to harassment in the line of duty,” the Association said in a statement.
An FIR was registered against Ravi Kumar at the Station Bazar Police station in Kalaburagi. The BJP MLC later expressed regret and called it “a slip of tongue” and an “inadvertent remark”.
Karnataka Chief Minister, Siddaramaiah condemned Ravi Kumar’s statement as intolerable and hateful. He further confirmed that legal action has been initiated.
Who is IAS Fouzia Tarannum?
Fouzia Tarannum, a senior IAS officer with an exemplary track record, has been recognised for her contributions to public service. She was among the 22 recipients of the Best Electoral Practices Award for 2024-25, presented by President Droupadi Murmu, acknowledging her outstanding efforts in election management and voter education.
Her dedication to public service has been further demonstrated through various initiatives like the promotion of Kalaburagi Rotti and introducing millets as a staple in the region, thereby, earning her Excellence in Governance Awards.
In view of the disturbing incident, a debate is triggered about the rising use of hateful and communal rhetoric in political discourse. Many have pointed out the dangerous implications of targeting public officials on the basis of their religious identity.
