Shivamogga: ” I did not hurl insulting words at the superintendent of police in Mandya as reported in the media, instead advised him, said CM Siddaramaiah clarifying on the Malavalli incident.

The rage expressed at Mandya SP Sudhir Kumar Reddy had nothing to do with BJP workers’ protest flashing black flags against him, CM said.

“I just did not want anyone to get hurt in the melee and intended to prevent untoward incident/accidents and accordingly advised the SP”, CM reiterated.

In the incident reported, CM was reportedly enraged when the irate protesters stopped his car, while he was plying from the temporary helipad at Malavalli to the event venue. On being perched on the stage, the CM summoned SP Sudhir Kumar Reddy and took him to task, holding him responsible for the security lapse.

Chief Minister’s action of insulting SP in public view drew wide criticism with opposition parties terming it as deplorable.