Belagavi, Apr 28 (UNI) Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah triggered controversy on Monday after he publicly reprimanded an Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) in uniform during a Congress convention held here.

Siddaramaiah, visibly upset over the security arrangements at the Belagavi Congress conference, summoned a senior police officer and berated him loudly, even raising his hand in anger, in full view of party workers, media personnel, and the public.

The incident has since gone viral on social media, with many criticising the Chief Minister for undermining the dignity of a uniformed officer and breaching established protocol.

Reacting sharply, Karnataka BJP Chief Vijayendra Yediyurappa accused Siddaramaiah of "disgracing the dignity of the Chief Minister’s office."

"Patriotic women have expressed their anger against Siddaramaiah's behaviour, which has brought shame to the office he holds," Vijayendra said.

Criticising Siddaramaiah’s recent conduct, Vijayendra alleged that the Chief Minister's "arrogance of power" had crossed all limits. "A few months ago, Siddaramaiah insulted a capable District Collector at a public meeting. His behaviour continues to reflect arrogance and hunger for power even today," he charged.

Vijayendra further claimed that Siddaramaiah’s attitude was damaging Karnataka’s political and cultural legacy.

"The pride of Karnataka and the dignity of the Chief Minister’s post are shrinking under Siddaramaiah’s leadership," he said.

He congratulated the women who raised slogans against Siddaramaiah and demanded the Chief Minister tender an unconditional apology to the police officer concerned and the entire police department. UNI BDN SSP