BJP–Congress Row Over S.S. Mallikarjun Remarks Against B.P. Harish

Bengaluru, September 10, 2026: A political controversy has erupted in Karnataka after a purported video of Horticulture Minister S.S. Mallikarjun surfaced, showing him allegedly making objectionable and unparliamentary remarks about Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA B.P. Harish during an interaction with farmers in Harihar, Davanagere district. The incident has triggered criticism from the BJP and added to the political confrontation between the ruling Congress and the opposition party.

Dispute Over Bhadra Water Release

The incident reportedly occurred when a group of farmers from the Harihar region approached Minister Mallikarjun regarding the availability and release of irrigation water from the Bhadra reservoir. During the interaction, the farmers reportedly referred to local BJP MLA B.P. Harish and said they had earlier raised the issue with him.

According to reports, Mallikarjun questioned why Harish was being addressed as “anna”, a term commonly used to refer respectfully to an elder brother. The conversation subsequently turned contentious, and a video circulating on social media allegedly showed the minister using derogatory language against the BJP legislator.

B.P. Harish Condemns Remarks

BJP MLA B.P. Harish strongly criticised the minister, accusing him of using vulgar language against an elected representative instead of addressing the concerns raised by farmers.

Harish said the controversy arose while farmers were seeking a solution to the water shortage affecting the Harihar region. He also indicated that he would take up the matter with the BJP's state and district leadership before deciding on further action.

BJP Demands Apology

The controversy has drawn a strong reaction from Karnataka BJP president B.Y. Vijayendra, who condemned the language attributed to Mallikarjun. Vijayendra said that remarks of this nature against an elected MLA were unacceptable and demanded a public apology from the minister.

The BJP has argued that the controversy is not simply a personal dispute between two politicians, but also concerns the dignity of an elected representative and the people of the constituency.

Mallikarjun's Response

Mallikarjun has denied making an objectionable statement, saying that his comments were related to why the farmers were addressing Harish as “anna”. The minister maintained that he was questioning the use of the term rather than intentionally making an offensive statement against the MLA.