A video clip purportedly showing Chikkamagaluru Deputy Commissioner Dr. Bagadi Gautam slapping a government official has gone viral in the district.
It is alleged that the officer, during his visit to the flood-hit areas to review the relief measures on Wednesday, lost his cool and slapped a Revenue Inspector at Hirebailu village in Mudigere taluk. The officer reportedly got angry as the RI had not processed the release of funds despite clear instructions from senior officers.
However, Mr. Bagadi Gautam has denied the allegation. In a written statement, released to media on Thursday, the officer said the allegation was far from the true. The DC said during his visit to Hirebailu that he did question the Revenue Inspector and Panchayat Development Officer about the delay in releasing the funds for relief but did not assault anyone.
“The RI has also denied the reports of an assault on him. Tahsildar, Taluk Panchayat Executive Officer, who were present during the visit also denied the allegation”, the statement said.
