Udupi MLA Yashpal Suvarna Booked for Speech During NEET Protest, Congress Alleges Hate Speech

The Udupi Town Police have registered a case against Udupi MLA Yashpal Suvarna for a speech he delivered during a protest on July 28, amid nationwide demonstrations against the NEET paper leak. The protest was organized by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

In his speech, Mr. Suvarna accused Congress leader Rahul Gandhi of 'instilling a poisonous seed' in the minds of youth and taking political mileage by 'creating chaos' over the issue. He also alleged that many participants in the protest at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi were not students, and claimed that the forces behind the nationwide protest would be revealed soon. The MLA cautioned actor Prakash Raj, who had joined the protest, against making 'irrelevant statements' in the Karavali region.

The case was lodged based on a complaint by Udupi District Congress President Ashok Kumar Kodavoor, who alleged that the speech constituted hate speech. The police have invoked sections 57, 192, 196(2), 352, 353(2), and 351(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. Further legal proceedings are awaited, according to Udupi Superintendent of Police Hariram Shankar.

Udupi Block Congress President Ramesh Kanchan condemned the remarks against Rahul Gandhi and his family, stating that the MLA used 'undignified language' while criticizing political opponents. Dakshina Kannada CPI(M) District Secretary Muneer Katipalla also condemned the alleged inflammatory references against Rahul Gandhi and Prakash Raj.

The NEET paper leak controversy has sparked protests across India, with students and opposition parties demanding a fair investigation and accountability. The booking of Mr. Suvarna adds a political dimension to the ongoing protests, highlighting the charged atmosphere surrounding the issue.