A 32-year-old sales executive from Solapur, Maharashtra, has been arrested by the Karnataka Police for allegedly making a threat call to IT-BT and Rural Development Minister Priyank Kharge. The accused reportedly issued verbal threats over the phone, prompting immediate investigation by the cybercrime and intelligence units. The incident, which occurred earlier this week, sparked widespread concern over the safety of elected representatives and the need for stronger security measures around government officials.
Police investigations into the threat call made to Karnataka IT-BT Minister Priyank Kharge have revealed significant details about the suspect, a 32-year-old sales executive from Solapur in Maharashtra. According to officials, the accused was arrested after a swift operation involving coordination between Solapur and Kalaburagi police forces.
The arrest followed a forensic analysis of the phone number used to issue the threat, which led the team to a rented residence in Solapur. Preliminary questioning indicated that the man acted alone and was reportedly under the influence of alcohol at the time of the call. Authorities, however, are not ruling out the possibility of ideological influence or connections with political groups hostile to the minister’s public statements against the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).
Investigators revealed that the call originated from a newly purchased prepaid SIM card that had been activated without proper verification. Police suspect the use of forged identity documents, prompting an additional probe into local vendors possibly involved in unauthorized SIM distribution. Two mobile phones, a laptop, and several storage devices have been seized from the accused for digital forensics.
Experts are examining message logs, browsing history, and deleted data to establish motive and timeline. According to police sources, the accused appeared to have followed the minister’s public statements closely on social media and expressed discontent over his recent remarks about banning RSS activities on government premises. The police believe the threat was made impulsively but have not dismissed the potential for politically motivated instigation behind it.
Minister Priyank Kharge has publicly expressed his gratitude to the Karnataka Police for their swift response and effective inter-state coordination. He reiterated that intimidation will never deter him from raising issues of public concern. In a statement released by his office, the minister said democracy thrives on constructive criticism and dialogue, not fear or coercion.
The incident has reignited debates about the safety of elected officials, especially in the digital era, where anonymity and virtual threats have become more frequent. The Karnataka Home Department is considering enhanced digital surveillance and a dedicated security protocol for ministers handling sensitive portfolios. Political analysts believe that this episode reflects the deepening polarization in public discourse, where dissent and ideological opposition increasingly manifest as hostility and aggression.
The Solapur Police have launched a background verification of the accused, confirming that he had been employed for over five years in a private trading company and had no prior criminal record. However, colleagues described him as a politically vocal individual who often expressed frustration over government policies on social media.
Forensic experts are studying whether he was part of any closed online groups or forums that promote hate speech or targeted political discussions. The incident has prompted discussions across Karnataka’s political landscape about responsible online behavior, freedom of speech, and the fine line between dissent and criminal intimidation. Civil rights groups have urged authorities to ensure that while security measures are tightened, democratic spaces for criticism and debate are not curtailed.
Legal experts indicate that the accused may face charges under Sections 506 (criminal intimidation) and 507 (criminal intimidation by anonymous communication) of the Indian Penal Code, in addition to relevant sections of the Information Technology Act. These carry potential imprisonment and fines upon conviction.
The Karnataka government has also directed officials to strengthen coordination between cybercrime cells across districts to prevent similar incidents. Meanwhile, Priyank Kharge’s supporters have held peaceful gatherings in Kalaburagi, denouncing the act and expressing solidarity with the minister. The episode has served as a reminder of the increasing vulnerability of public figures to digital threats and the urgent need for preventive infrastructure. Police officials maintain that the case is under active investigation, with further interrogation of the accused scheduled to uncover the full extent of his motives and affiliations.
According to police sources, the suspect made the threatening call using an unregistered SIM card, making the initial tracing process challenging. Investigators collaborated with telecom service providers to identify the source and location of the call, which led them to Solapur. After verifying the evidence and obtaining a warrant, the police team traveled to Maharashtra to detain the accused. The motive behind the call remains unclear, but authorities suspect it could be politically or personally motivated.
Minister Priyank Kharge, known for his outspoken views and proactive digital governance policies, reportedly received the call while attending an official event in Kalaburagi. The police provided immediate security reinforcement for the minister and his residence. Officials emphasized that such incidents will be handled with zero tolerance, ensuring swift legal consequences for anyone attempting to intimidate public servants.
Cybercrime Wing Steps In: Sales
The Cybercrime Wing has taken over the technical investigation of the case to trace the communication trail, analyze the suspect’s phone records, and uncover potential accomplices. Experts are also examining whether the threat had any organized backing or was an isolated act.
Meanwhile, cyber experts warn of rising cases of digital harassment targeting politicians and public figures, stressing the importance of advanced surveillance systems and awareness programs to deter such crimes.
Broader Implications of the Arrest
The arrest has reignited the debate about the increasing misuse of technology in intimidation and harassment cases. Political analysts view this as a reflection of growing intolerance and polarization in digital spaces, where threats have become tools of aggression against differing opinions. The Karnataka government has reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety of ministers and public officials, asserting that law enforcement will continue to strengthen cyber monitoring and security frameworks.
Police officials in Karnataka have stated that the accused was apprehended after a two-day coordinated operation between Solapur and Kalaburagi police teams. The suspect was transported to Karnataka for questioning, where he reportedly confessed to making the call under the influence of alcohol.
Sources from the investigation revealed that the call was made from a newly purchased SIM card that had not been linked to any valid ID proof. Authorities are now verifying if the SIM was procured illegally through intermediaries or black-market vendors.
The accused, a sales executive working for a local trading company in Solapur, is said to have no prior criminal record. However, police are investigating whether he had any political affiliations or connections to groups opposed to Minister Kharge’s policies.
Officers also seized two mobile phones, a laptop, and digital storage devices from the accused’s residence to analyze potential evidence of premeditation or coordination with others. Digital forensic experts are examining message logs and call data records.
Minister Priyank Kharge has expressed confidence in the police’s swift response, stating that such incidents should serve as a warning to those attempting to spread fear or hatred through intimidation.
The minister’s office released a statement emphasizing that constructive criticism is welcome in a democracy, but threats or violence will never be tolerated under any circumstance.
Political observers believe the incident could lead to renewed demands for stronger laws against digital threats and cyber harassment targeting public representatives.
The Karnataka government is reportedly considering forming a dedicated cyber monitoring cell for ministers and senior bureaucrats to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Cybersecurity specialists suggest that elected officials must adopt stricter personal data protection measures, such as secure communication channels and verified contact lists.
Public reaction to the arrest has been mixed, with some applauding the quick police action while others caution against over-securitization that might hinder citizen access to public officials.
Law enforcement authorities continue to trace the accused’s recent call history to determine if he had made similar threatening communications to others.
Investigators are also analyzing his social media activity, where he had allegedly posted politically charged comments critical of several government schemes.
The accused’s employer has confirmed his arrest and stated that the company was unaware of his actions, promising full cooperation with police inquiries.
Local police in Solapur have stepped up monitoring of suspicious online behavior after the incident to prevent further misuse of mobile networks for illegal activities.
Legal experts suggest the accused may be charged under sections related to criminal intimidation, misuse of telecommunications, and cyber harassment, carrying imprisonment and fines.
Meanwhile, opposition leaders have condemned the act, urging citizens to engage in democratic dissent respectfully rather than resorting to threats or personal attacks.
Following the arrest, political reactions have poured in from across the spectrum, with leaders from both ruling and opposition parties condemning the act of issuing threats against an elected representative. Senior Congress members described the incident as an alarming reflection of the growing intolerance toward dissenting voices in society.
They argued that ideological differences must be debated through dialogue rather than intimidation. On the other hand, some BJP leaders cautioned against using the incident for political mileage, emphasizing that the law must take its own course without bias. Civil society organizations in Karnataka have meanwhile urged the government to enhance awareness on cyber safety, digital accountability, and ethical communication. The broader message emerging from the episode is a renewed call for responsible civic engagement—reminding citizens that democracy functions best when criticism remains civil, lawful, and rooted in respect for differing opinions.
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