Case filed against MLA Basanagouda Patil Yatnal over alleged hate speech on Gandhi, Nehru

Yadgir : Police in Gurmitkal town of Karnataka’s Yadgir district have registered a suo motu case against BJP MLA Basanagouda Patil Yatnal for allegedly making derogatory and hate speech remarks against national leaders Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru during a public event.

According to police, the case was registered following Yatnal’s controversial speech delivered on February 21 during a Shivaji Jayanti celebration held in Gurmitkal town. The event was attended by several local leaders and members of the public, and portions of the speech later went viral on social media, triggering widespread outrage and debate.

Police officials confirmed that the case has been booked under multiple provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including Sections 196, 299, 302, 352, and 353, which deal with promoting enmity, incitement, and statements that could disturb public harmony and law and order.

During his speech, Yatnal reportedly questioned the historical recognition of Mahatma Gandhi as the Father of the Nation and Jawaharlal Nehru as India’s first Prime Minister. He also made controversial claims regarding Kashmir and national history, and made remarks targeting certain communities, which authorities say could potentially provoke communal tension.

The speech quickly gained traction across digital platforms, prompting criticism from political opponents and civil society groups. Several individuals and organisations demanded legal action, alleging that the remarks were inflammatory and capable of disturbing communal harmony.

Police sources said the Gurmitkal Police registered the case on their own initiative after reviewing video footage and assessing the potential impact of the statements on public peace. “We have taken cognisance of the speech delivered during the Shivaji Jayanti event. Based on preliminary findings and legal provisions, a suo motu case has been registered. Further investigation is underway,” a senior police officer said.

Authorities are now examining video recordings, eyewitness accounts, and other evidence to determine the full context and implications of the speech. Officials said further legal action would depend on the outcome of the investigation.

The development has intensified political tensions in the region, with supporters defending Yatnal’s remarks as freedom of expression, while critics have condemned the statements as irresponsible and divisive.

The case comes at a time when law enforcement agencies are closely monitoring public speeches and social media content to prevent communal unrest and ensure maintenance of law and order.