. K’taka IAS Officers Association condemns derogatory remarks by BJP MLC Ravi Kumar against Chief Secretary, seeks legal action

Bengaluru Express
Bangalore, July 4: – The Karnataka IAS Officers’ Association strongly condemns the derogatory remarks made by BJP MLC and opposition whip in the Council, N Ravikumar, against Chief Secretary to Government.

The Chief Secretary holds the highest civil office in Karnataka and is a widely respected officer known for her integrity, commitment, and distinguished public service. The remarks made in public are not just vulgar and defamatory, but they also directly undermine the dignity of her office and the larger civil service. Such remarks not only denigrate public institutions but also erode the trust they hold, the IAS officers’ Associations said.

A delegation comprising Gaurav Gupta, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary, Energy Dept, Water Resources, Pankaj Kumar Pandey, IAS, Managing Director, KPTCL, Khushboo Goel Chowdhary IAS, MD KSSIDC and Cauvery B.B., IAS, Secretary to Government, today met the Hon’ble Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and submitted a letter of condemnation on behalf of the IAS Officers’ Association.

Five weeks ago, MLC Ravi Kumar had made similar statements against Kalaburagi DC Fauzia Tarannum, questioning her nationality at Gulbarga. Despite our prior appeal for corrective action, the recurrence of such behaviour reflects a disturbing pattern of targeting and vilifying public service officers.

The IAS Association expresses its strong solidarity with both officers. It reiterates its concern over repeated attempts to undermine the credibility of dedicated officers serving the state of Karnataka with distinction.

The association urges the government to take corrective measures and requests the following:

1.    A public and unconditional apology from BJP MLC Ravi Kumar.
2.    Immediate legal action under applicable provisions of law.
3.    A formal resolution of censure in the Legislative Council.

The IAS Officers Association reiterates that civil servants must be allowed to discharge their duties without fear, insult, or political intimidation. Upholding respect in civil service is crucial, and any statement that promotes a culture of disrespect sends the wrong message to officers working in the state.