In a setback for Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, senior police officer Narayan Barmani has applied for voluntary retirement, alleging public humiliation by the CM during a political event held in Belagavi two months ago.
Barmani, who currently serves as Additional SP in Dharwad and has 31 years of service with four years remaining, said the incident left him deeply distressed.
In his letter dated June 12, addressed to the Additional Chief Secretary, Home Department, at Vidhana Soudha, Bengaluru, Barmani formally sought voluntary retirement (VRS). “After being publicly insulted by the Chief Minister over a lapse I was not responsible for, I see no alternative but to resign. I request you to accept my decision,” he stated.
The three-page letter details the emotional impact of the episode, noting its demoralising effect not only on him but across the police force. Barmani described the CM’s conduct, while he was in uniform, as “rude and humiliating,” stating it had severely undermined the dignity of the service.
The controversy stems from a Congress-led protest against price rise in Belagavi. During the event, black flags were waved by a section of the crowd, prompting CM Siddaramaiah to react angrily over the security arrangements. He summoned Barmani, who was standing near the stage, to come forward. In full public view and in front of television cameras, the Chief Minister allegedly raised his hand, appearing ready to slap the officer. Barmani reportedly stepped back to avoid the gesture.
Recalling the incident in his letter, Barmani wrote, “The entire state saw the Chief Minister lift his hand to strike me on live TV. Though I evaded physical assault, I could not avoid the shame of being humiliated in front of thousands, including senior leaders and the media.”
