The University Police Station in Kalaburagi has registered an FIR against 29-year-old Raghavendra, son of Basavarajayya Guttedar, who is described as a Bajrang Dal activist, over an Instagram video that police allege could disturb public peace and create tension between different groups.
According to the FIR, the case was registered as Crime No. 211/2026 under Sections 192 and 353(1)(c) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The alleged incident is dated August 27, 2026.
According to the complaint, a police head constable came across a video posted from the Instagram account “ragvendraguttedar.” The video reportedly discussed the Milad-un-Nabi celebrations in Kalaburagi, particularly the installation of posters and cut-outs at different locations.
The police complaint alleges that Raghavendra questioned whether permission had been obtained for the cut-outs and raised concerns about their placement on roads. He also allegedly compared the issue with the way banners put up by Hindu organisations are treated.
The FIR further alleges that some of his remarks could provoke tension between different groups and disturb public peace. The complaint also states that he called upon Bajrang Dal youth/workers to raise their voice over the issue.
The police have invoked Section 192 of the BNS, which deals with provocation intended or likely to cause rioting, and Section 353(1)(c), which covers certain statements or information that may incite one group or community to commit an offence against another.
Instagram video referred to in the complaint:
Previous Controversy
Local social activist Mohammed Wajid Ahmed, while speaking to The Observer Post, said that this is not the first time Raghavendra has shared content concerning Milad posters and cut-outs. Wajid claimed that similar videos were circulated in 2025 as well.
Speaking about the latest FIR, Wajid said that repeated statements of this nature on social media can potentially affect communal harmony and public peace in Kalaburagi.
He said authorities should take action according to law whenever an individual is found attempting to create communal tension, regardless of their political or organisational affiliation.
Wajid also referred to an earlier statement by Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge, who had said that organisations such as the Bajrang Dal and RSS could face action, including a ban, if they threaten peace, law and order or social harmony in the state.
Wajid said that the same standard should apply to everyone, adding that if any individual or organisation is found making statements or engaging in activities that threaten social harmony, strict legal action should follow irrespective of who they are or which organisation they belong to.
The FIR names Raghavendra as the accused, and the matter is currently under investigation.
