BJP leader Manikanth Rathod’s press conference on October 16 in Kalaburagi led to a police complaint by a social worker. | Photo credit: FILE PHOTO
An FIR has been registered against BJP leader Manikanth Rathod for using derogatory words and making provocative statements against Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Minister Priyank Kharge during a press conference last week.
Stating that Mr. Rathod’s statement against Mr. Kharge during a press conference on October 16 could disturb public peace or cause a law and order problem, social worker Siddaroodh M. Kamble registered a complaint at the Brahmapur police station on Thursday, on the basis of which the police registered an FIR.
During the press conference, Mr. Rathod warned that Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) volunteers would storm Mr. Kharge’s house if the minister continued to speak against the organization. He also made several derogatory comments against Mr. Kharge in videos that went viral on social media.
Mr. Kharge is committed to improving the welfare of marginalized groups and promoting the development of the state, but a few vested interests like Manikanth Rathod are constantly trying to tarnish Mr. Kharge’s image as they are unable to digest the growing popularity of the leader (Mr. Kharge), the statement said.
In the past, under the influence of drugs, Mr. Rathod had made several videos in which he made disrespectful remarks against Mr. Kharge, the statement said.
Published – 23 Oct 2025 20:22 IST
