RSS leader Kalladka Prabhakar Bhat booked for alleged hate speech

Bengaluru/Puttur

A criminal case has been filed against Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) leader Kalladka Prabhakar Bhat for allegedly making a provocative speech that incited communal hatred and demeaned women during the Deepotsava celebrations at Uppalige in Puttur on October 20.

The complaint, lodged by Eshwari Padmunja from Puttur taluk, accuses Bhat of making derogatory remarks against both Hindu and Muslim communities and referring to voter demographics in a manner that could trigger religious discord. The speech was reportedly streamed on the YouTube channel Kahale News, amplifying its reach.

Acting on the complaint, Puttur Rural Police have registered a case under Sections 79, 196, 299, and 302, along with Section 3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), against Prabhakar Bhat and the event organisers. Police sources confirmed that an investigation has been initiated to examine the contents of the speech and identify potential violations under the new penal code.

Authorities are also expected to review the video footage and social media circulation of the event to assess its wider impact on public order and community harmony.