‘My family was in tears’: Cop quits over CM’s slap gesture, returns after talks

Bengaluru: Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has defused yet another political flashpoint this time involving the police force just hours after quelling internal rumblings within his own party. The crisis stemmed from an April incident in Belagavi, where Siddaramaiah was seen raising his hand at a senior police officer during a Congress protest, triggering widespread outrage and emotional fallout.

The officer at the centre of the controversy, Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) Naryana Baramani, had recently submitted a voluntary retirement request, citing humiliation and lack of support from the government and department. In a heartfelt three-page letter written in Kannada, Baramani expressed deep distress, saying the episode left him feeling isolated and disrespected.

"I wanted to confront the Chief Minister... but I refrained, understanding the public embarrassment it could cause," he wrote, noting that his family was left shaken by the ordeal. Despite the setback, Baramani reaffirmed his commitment to the uniform and returned to duty on Wednesday after high-level talks with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Home Minister G Parameshwara, and senior police officials.

Following the meeting, Home Minister Parameshwara clarified that the resignation was an emotional response to the situation and promised a suitable posting for the officer. "The Chief Minister had no intention of insulting," he said, adding that the matter had been resolved amicably.

The government’s rapid response is seen as a strategic move to avoid further strain with the state police force, particularly amid recent tensions over the suspension of a senior officer in connection with the RCB stadium stampede case. The ruling Congress is also keen to avoid additional controversies as it navigates internal challenges and external opposition.

The April incident dubbed 'nearly slapgate' occurred when BJP workers infiltrated a Congress rally, drawing the Chief Minister’s ire. Footage from the event showed Siddaramaiah angrily questioning the security lapse and gesturing sharply at ASP Baramani, leading to accusations of inappropriate conduct from the BJP and JD(S).