Defamation Case Against Yatnal After Minister's Wife Files Complaint

A Bengaluru court has ordered a criminal defamation case against Basangouda Patil Yatnal following comments he made about Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao. Tabu Rao, the minister’s wife, filed the complaint. The case adds to political tensions in Karnataka amid allegations of a conspiracy to destabilize the state government.

A court in Bengaluru has directed the filing of a criminal defamation case against Basangouda Patil Yatnal, following a complaint from Tabu Rao, the wife of Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao. The case stems from Yatnal's statement during the Lok Sabha elections, alleging anti-national behavior.

Tabu Rao lodged a private complaint at the Sanjay Nagar police station and submitted evidence including newspaper reports to the court. The court has issued a summons to Yatnal, seeking to charge him under Sections 499 and 500 of the IPC.

This legal action follows broader political tensions in Karnataka, where Minister Rao has claimed a conspiracy to undermine Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. The CM is facing prosecution linked to the MUDA scam, which he dismisses as unfounded. Rao defended the CM, insisting on adherence to the rule of law.

Minister Rao stated, "Our CM has done nothing wrong. It is a conspiracy to target him and destabilize the government. The party is now more united." He acknowledged corruption but emphasized the necessity of legal action when issues arise.

(With inputs from agencies.)