Karnataka Congress Files Formal Complaint Against BJP Over Gandhi Imagery
The political landscape in Karnataka has been ignited by a serious accusation from the state Congress unit. In a formal complaint dated February 6, 2026, the party has alleged that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has engaged in the misuse of Mahatma Gandhi's revered image to promote and glorify violence through a published newspaper advertisement.
Details of the Allegation
The complaint, filed by a Congress representative named Babu, centers on an advertisement that appeared in various newspapers. According to the document, the advertisement carries imagery that "promotes, glorifies or incites violence" by inappropriately using the likeness of Mahatma Gandhi. Gandhi, known globally as the Father of the Nation and a symbol of non-violence, is depicted in a manner that the Congress claims contradicts his lifelong principles of peace and ahimsa.
This accusation has sparked a heated debate, with the Congress asserting that such use of Gandhi's image is not only disrespectful but also potentially dangerous, as it could mislead the public and incite unrest. The party has called for immediate action against those responsible for the advertisement, highlighting the need to uphold the sanctity of national icons in political discourse.
Political Reactions and Implications
The BJP has yet to issue an official response to the complaint, but the allegation has already drawn significant attention from political analysts and the media. This incident is seen as part of a broader pattern of political rivalry in Karnataka, where both parties frequently clash over ideological and symbolic issues.
Experts suggest that the misuse of Gandhi's image could have far-reaching consequences, not only in Karnataka but across India, given Gandhi's universal appeal and the sensitive nature of his legacy. The Congress has emphasized that this is not merely a political stunt but a serious matter of ethical conduct, urging the public to reflect on the values Gandhi stood for.
As the controversy unfolds, it remains to be seen how the BJP will address these allegations and what steps, if any, will be taken by regulatory bodies. The incident underscores the ongoing tensions in Indian politics, where symbolism and messaging often become battlegrounds for larger ideological conflicts.
