Court orders FIR against home minister over ‘₹500 betting’ remark, sparks political embarrassment
Bengaluru, : In a development that has triggered political controversy in Karnataka, a city court has directed police to register an FIR against state Home Minister G. Parameshwara over his reported admission of placing a ₹500 bet during a kabaddi match. The order has put the spotlight on alleged violations of anti-betting laws and raised questions about accountability at the highest levels of governance.
The directive was issued by the 42nd ACJM court in Bengaluru, which asked the Karnataka Police to initiate a formal investigation into the matter. The case stems from a private complaint filed by an individual who argued that even a symbolic or casual bet amounts to promoting an illegal activity under the law.
The controversy traces back to a state-level kabaddi tournament held in Tumakuru, where Parameshwara reportedly said he had placed a ₹500 wager predicting the victory of a Vijayapura team. However, the team lost the final match to Dakshina Kannada. While distributing prizes, the minister himself publicly mentioned the bet, which later became the basis of legal action.
The court observed that public figures, especially those holding sensitive portfolios like the Home Department, are expected to uphold the law and set an example. It directed the Kodigehalli Police Station to register a case and conduct a detailed probe into the incident.
Legal experts note that betting, even in small amounts, is prohibited under existing laws in most parts of India unless specifically regulated. The complainant argued that the minister’s statement could be construed as endorsing an unlawful practice, thereby warranting investigation.
The order has led to an unusual situation where the police department may have to investigate its own administrative head. Sources indicate that officials are likely to proceed cautiously, adhering strictly to the court’s instructions.
Opposition parties have seized upon the issue, accusing the ruling establishment of double standards. They argue that while the government claims to crack down on illegal betting and gambling, such statements by senior leaders undermine those efforts.
Meanwhile, there has been no official response from the minister’s office at the time of filing this report. However, political observers believe the issue could escalate further if the investigation gathers momentum.
