The Karnataka Police have requested to Kannada actor Upendra appear for questioning on Monday after a FIR was lodged against him for making a contentious remark about Dalits. First Information Reports (FIRs) have been made against the actor under the Atrocity Act, which is a non-bailable offence.
In a live video on social media, Upendra used a Kannada proverb that disparages the Dalit caste. This sparked a debate in the state, and his comments were denounced. Following the criticism, actor and director Upendra apologised profusely and said he didn't mean to offend any particular group of people.
Madhusoodhan, the Assistant Director attached to the Social Welfare Department, had reported him to the Chennammanakere Achukattu police station. Bhyrappa Harish Kumar, an employee of Ranadheera Pade, filed a second police report at Halasuru Gate. His homes in the Sadashivanagar and Katriguppe neighbourhoods have received letters from the police for him to attend for the investigation. The message was also distributed by the police via WhatsApp.
The actor is frequently involved in issues because of his distinctive content that questions the political structure and traditions that are already in place. His all-Indian film 'Kabzaa' had a dismal box office performance. Another all-India initiative called 'UI' is keeping him busy right now.
A celebrity director by the name of Upendra, he produced blockbusters and rose to fame. His popularity among Telugu viewers is very high. In Karnataka, he has also established the political party Prajakeeya. Dr. H.C. Mahadevappa, the minister for social welfare in Karnataka, stated that he had presumed Upendra had a fair understanding of the history, culture, and way of life in the nation.
He stated, "Humiliating in terms of caste is an insult to the Constitution. One has to be careful while making a public speech."