MLA B Suresh Gowda's daughter slaps woman cop at Karnataka temple; officer hits back

Aishwarya, daughter of Tumakuru Rural BJP MLA B Suresh Gowda, has been booked after a woman police Sub-Inspector alleged that she was abused and slapped during a dispute at a temple in Karnataka's Mandya district. CCTV footage of the incident has now surfaced and gone viral on social media.

The incident took place on August 12 at the Arathi Ukkada temple, where PSI Savitha B was deployed for special security duty during Bhima Amavasya. According to the complaint, an argument broke out after Aishwarya allegedly objected to a delay in allowing her to have darshan.

The CCTV footage shows Aishwarya appearing to slap the police officer on the head following a brief argument. The officer then appears to hit Aishwarya on the shoulder, while a nearby policeman and others step in to intervene and separate the two.

An FIR has been registered against Aishwarya under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including sections related to assault or use of criminal force against a public servant, voluntarily causing hurt, intentional insult and criminal intimidation.

Mandya Superintendent of Police Mallikarjun Baladandi said Aishwarya has also filed a counter-complaint, alleging that the police officer abused her. Police are investigating both complaints.

The CCTV footage has since triggered widespread outrage on social media, with several users questioning whether political connections could influence the handling of the case and calling for action against Aishwarya.

The incident has also sparked a broader debate over the treatment of police personnel while on duty and allegations of preferential treatment for people connected to political figures. The police investigation into both complaints is underway.