By: Express News ServiceJanuary 16, 2026 02:28 PM IST 2 min readAmid a controversy over the incident, the Karnataka Congress on Thursday issued a show-cause notice to Rajeev for violating party discipline.Two separate cases were lodged against Karnataka Congress leader Rajeev Gowda on Wednesday over allegations of verbal abuse, criminal intimidation, obstruction of official duties, and attempts to disturb public order in Shidlaghatta town. Authorities said he is currently absconding.The first First Information Report (FIR) was filed by Amruta Gowda, Shidlaghatta City Municipal Council Commissioner, who alleged that on January 13, banners bearing Rajeev’s image were installed at multiple locations, including Kote Circle, without permission, obstructing traffic. Some of the banners had allegedly fallen onto the road and were removed by civic staff.The commissioner said that on January 12, Rajeev called her, allegedly used abusive language, demanded the banners be reinstalled immediately, and threatened civic staff. She added that he warned of mobilising people from multiple wards, inciting unrest, damaging public property, and obstructing city council functions. She said the call caused severe mental distress to her and her staff.The FIR was registered under sections 132 (assaulting or using criminal force against a public servant), 224 (threat of injury to a public servant), 352 (intentional insult with intent to provoke breach of peace), 351(3) (criminal intimidation), and 56 (abetment) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023.Also Read | Karnataka Congress seeks explanation from Rajeev Gowda amid demands to expel him for verbally abusing woman officerThe second FIR was filed by N C Srinivasa Gowda, farmer and taluk vice-president of the JD(S). He alleged that during the same call, Rajeev made provocative statements, abused Shidlaghatta MLA B N Ravikumar, and falsely blamed him for the removal of the banners. The complaint also stated that Rajeev threatened to mobilise people from 31 wards, damage government offices, and incite violence, while making indecent remarks against women government officials. A purported audio of the call circulated widely on social media, raising concerns among residents.This FIR was registered under sections 352 (intentional insult with intent to provoke breach of peace) and 353(2) (offences related to public mischief from false statements) of the BNS, 2023.Amid a controversy over the incident, the Karnataka Congress on Thursday issued a show-cause notice to Rajeev for violating party discipline.Stay updated with the latest - Click here to follow us on Instagram© The Indian Express Pvt Ltd