Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah's First Reaction On Bengaluru Road Rage Incident, Says IAF Officer's Conduct Was 'Deeply Disrespectful & Inflammatory'
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Monday reacted to the recent road rage incident in Bengaluru involving an Indian Air Force couple.
Using strong language against the IAF officer, who has been booked for allegedly assaulting a call centre employee, Siddaramaiah said, “He made unwarranted and derogatory remarks about Karnataka and Kannadigas on social media, displaying conduct that is deeply disrespectful and inflammatory.”
Highlighting the tolerant nature of Karnataka’s people, he stated, “Kannadigas are proud of their mother tongue, but they are neither parochial nor intolerant. It is not in our culture to attack or abuse others over linguistic matters.”
He further emphasised Karnataka's inclusive ethos:“Karnataka has a long and proud tradition of embracing people from across the country, treating them with respect, and accepting them as one of our own. The inclusive spirit of this land is well documented in history,” the Chief Minister added.
Siddaramaiah also criticised sections of the national media, alleging that they had failed in their responsibility and professional ethics by amplifying a baseless accusation from one individual, thereby casting aspersions on the dignity of the entire state.
“This has caused pain and anguish to every Kannadiga,” he said.
Urging restraint, Siddaramaiah appealed to the people of Karnataka not to succumb to provocation or emotion.
“Let us uphold the law and maintain peace. Karnataka is governed by a government elected by the people of this land, and it stands firmly for justice and dignity,” he said.
The CM also informed that he has instructed the Commissioner of Police to take appropriate legal action against all individuals involved—regardless of their position or rank.
Meanwhile, an FIR has been registered against Indian Air Force Wing Commander Shiladitya Bose based on a counter-complaint filed by a call centre employee, who was earlier arrested following the officer’s initial complaint related to the road rage incident.
Following the incident, the IAF officer had alleged that he was attacked and verbally abused by a group of Kannada-speaking individuals who chased him on a bike in Bengaluru early Monday morning.
However, the police clarified in an official statement that it was a case of road rage and not a targeted attack over language.
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