Karnataka minister SS Mallikarjun faced accusations of using derogatory language against BJP MLA BP Harish during an interaction with local farmers over irrigation water from the Bhadra reservoir. According to a purported video shared by NDTV, Mallikarjun reportedly told farmers to 'beat him with slippers' and instructed them not to use the term 'anna' when referring to Harish. The incident has sparked a political row within the state.

The farmers from the Harihar region had approached Mallikarjun to request the release of irrigation water from the Bhadra reservoir. They reportedly told the minister that BJP MLA Harish had directed them to meet him. 'There is no water to drink, no water for the cattle. When we ask Harish Anna, he said ask the minister,' the farmers reportedly told Mallikarjun, according to NDTV. This led to an outburst from the minister.

Following the incident, Harish claimed he was informed about the remarks by a farmer who was part of the group that had approached Mallikarjun. 'The district minister SS Mallikarjun has used vulgar and abusive words against me when farmers approached him,' Harish said, according to ANI news agency. He alleged that instead of behaving properly with the locals, the district minister had used vulgar language against him and added that the electorate would 'show him the result.' Harish said he would take the matter up with the party leadership in the state.

Karnataka BJP unit president BY Vijayendra also issued a public condemnation against the minister's remarks. 'Our state president BY Vijayendra has already condemned it in a press meet today evening. The entire Karnataka BJP is behind me against SS Mallikarjun,' Harish added. Vijayendra said the Davanagere in-charge minister had used 'unparliamentary language' against Harihar MLA BP Harish. 'He has abused his parents as well,' Vijayendra said, according to NDTV. The Karnataka BJP president said this was not just an insult to the Hari, but also to the people of his constituency.

The incident remains under scrutiny, with details of the alleged remarks and their context still unclear. The situation highlights the tensions within Karnataka's political landscape, particularly between the ruling party and its opposition. Further developments are expected as the matter is taken up by the party leadership and possibly the state government.

The incident underscores the importance of maintaining decorum in public discourse, especially during interactions involving local issues and community concerns. While the farmers' request for irrigation water is a legitimate concern, the manner in which the minister addressed the issue has drawn criticism. The response from Harish and BJP leaders indicates a significant political fallout, with potential implications for the state's political dynamics.