A special court in Bengaluru dealing with cases involving elected representatives has issued an arrest warrant against BJP MLA B P Harish after he repeatedly failed to appear in court in connection with a 2023 caste-related remarks case.
The order was passed on Wednesday by Special Judge Santosh Gajanan Bhat, who also directed the police to produce the legislator before the court on Thursday.
“The police are directed to ensure the presence of the accused before the court,” the judge said while issuing the warrant.
Case Linked to Alleged Derogatory Remarks Against Dalit Community
The case dates back to the 2023 Karnataka Assembly elections, when Harish allegedly made offensive remarks against members of the Dalit community who had come to congratulate him after his victory.
According to the complaint, the MLA accused them of not supporting the BJP despite the party introducing internal reservation for the community.
A complaint was later filed by BSP leader D Hanumanthappa at Harihar Town Police Station, leading to the registration of a case under provisions related to caste-based insults.
Though Harish later issued an apology, he allegedly repeated or defended his remarks at a public event, which led to further legal action.
Viral Video Triggered Public Outrage
A video of the alleged statement reportedly circulated on social media, triggering widespread criticism and demands for strict action.
The court noted that despite multiple summons, Harish did not appear for hearings, which led to the issuance of the arrest warrant.
Police officials confirmed that they have received the court order and are preparing to execute it.
“We have been directed to produce the accused before the court on May 7, and action will be taken as per law,” a senior police officer said.
Earlier Case Also Filed Over Remarks Against Police Officer
This is not the only legal trouble facing the MLA. In a separate case filed in September last year, Harish was accused of making derogatory comments against then Davangere Superintendent of Police Uma Prashanth.
During a press conference, he allegedly compared her to a “Pomeranian dog,” while criticising her alleged proximity to influential political families.
Harish had said, “When Opposition MLAs come to meetings, the Superintendent of Police does not even greet them. She behaves like a Pomeranian and thinks protection from a powerful family will last forever.”
Following the complaint, police registered a case under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including charges related to criminal intimidation and insulting a woman’s modesty.
Court Takes Strong View of Non-Appearance
Legal experts say arrest warrants are generally issued when an accused consistently avoids court proceedings despite repeated notices.
In this case, the court observed that Harish’s absence was delaying the judicial process, prompting stricter action.
The matter is now being closely watched in political and legal circles due to its sensitivity and the involvement of a sitting MLA.
No Response From MLA, Legal Options Expected
As of now, B P Harish has not issued any public response regarding the arrest warrant. Sources indicate that his legal team may approach the court seeking relief or protection from arrest.
Meanwhile, police have intensified efforts to trace the MLA and ensure compliance with the court’s order.
Further Hearing on May 7
The court has scheduled the next hearing for May 7, and the MLA is expected to be produced before it either voluntarily or through police action.
