A Karnataka temple clash involving BJP MLA B Suresh Gowda’s daughter Aishwarya and PSI Savitha B Patil has attracted attention after CCTV footage of the incident surfaced. The confrontation took place at Atari Ukkada Temple in Srirangapatna during Biham Amavasya celebrations.
According to reports, the dispute began when the police officer asked Aishwarya to wait amid the heavy crowd of devotees. The argument reportedly escalated before the two women slapped each other.
What Happened at the Karnataka Temple?
PSI Savitha B Patil was reportedly deployed for crowd management during the Biham Amavasya celebrations. When Aishwarya attempted to enter the temple’s sanctum, the officer allegedly asked her to wait because devotees were already in the queue.
The request reportedly led to a heated argument. According to the police complaint, Aishwarya allegedly abused the officer and slapped her. CCTV footage that later surfaced appears to show Aishwarya striking Savitha, followed by the police officer striking back. Bystanders then intervened and separated the two women.
Aishwarya has also filed a counter-complaint, alleging that the police officer verbally abused her. The competing allegations are being investigated.
FIR Filed Against MLA’s Daughter
Following the complaint by PSI Savitha Patil, an FIR was registered against Aishwarya for allegedly assaulting and obstructing a public servant while she was performing her official duties.
The CCTV footage has become an important part of the case because it captures the physical confrontation. However, the footage does not necessarily establish everything that happened before the incident. Police are expected to consider the video, witness statements and complaints from both sides during the investigation.
An FIR represents allegations and does not by itself establish guilt.
BJP MLA B Suresh Gowda Responds
BJP MLA B Suresh Gowda later apologised over the incident involving his daughter. He also said he had been informed that the police officer verbally abused Aishwarya before the confrontation.
The incident has sparked a wider discussion about VIP access at temples, particularly during major festivals when large numbers of devotees wait in queues. It has also raised questions about the challenges faced by police officers while managing crowds and maintaining order.
The investigation will determine the circumstances surrounding the confrontation and whether further legal action is required.