Manikanth Rathod booked for provocative statement

An FIR has been registered against BJP leader Manikanth Rathod for using derogatory words while making a provocative statement against Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Minister Priyank Kharge during a press conference last week.

Stating that Mr. Rathod’s statement against Mr. Kharge during the press conference on October 16 could disrupt public tranquility or cause a law and order issue, social worker Siddaroodh M. Kamble registered a complaint at Brahmapur Police Station on Thursday based on which the police have registered the FIR.

During the press conference, Mr. Rathod warned that volunteers of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) will barge into Mr. Kharge’s house if the Minister continues to speak against the organization. He also made some derogatory comments against Mr. Kharge in videos that have gone viral on social media.

Mr. Kharge is committed to enhancing the welfare of marginalized groups and promoting the development of the State, but a few vested interests like Manikanth Rathod have been perpetually trying to tarnish the image of Mr. Kharge as they are not able to digest the growing popularity of the leader [Mr Kharge], the statement said.

In the past, Mr. Rathod, under the influence of drugs, made several videos in which he made disrespectful remarks against Mr. Kharge, the statement said.