Social media platforms erupted with controversy after images surfaced showing two men with serious criminal charges—including one accused in the murder of activist Gauri Lankesh—posing with Hubballi-Dharwad's new Police Commissioner. The photos, shared widely online, have raised uncomfortable questions about access and appearances within law enforcement circles.

Key facts:

  • Amit Baddi is accused of involvement in the 2017 murder of journalist-activist Gauri Lankesh
  • Khet Singh Rajpurohit faces narcotics charges
  • Photos were taken during a public welcome event for Commissioner Borase Bhushan Gulabarao
  • Over 200 citizens visited the commissioner's office during the event

How the images came to light

The photographs show Amit Baddi and Khet Singh Rajpurohit standing alongside Police Commissioner Borase Bhushan Gulabarao in his office. According to police accounts, the men were among hundreds of citizens who came to welcome the new commissioner when he assumed charge several days ago in Hubballi.

Police response: Damage control mode

The police commissionerate moved quickly to distance itself from the images, issuing an official statement that acknowledged the presence of "persons having criminal antecedents" but firmly denied any association with them.

“Over the last two days, more than 200 citizens visited the Commissioner of Police Office to extend greetings on my assuming charge. In such a large gathering, it has come to notice that a few persons having criminal antecedents were also present and photographs were taken. Their presence or photographs should not be construed as any association with the Police Department. Hubballi-Dharwad City Police remains committed to strict and impartial action against crime and criminals, without fear or favour,” the release stated.

The carefully worded response attempts to balance transparency about what occurred with reassurance that the police maintain professional boundaries with those accused of crimes.

Broader implications

The incident highlights the challenges law enforcement faces in maintaining public accessibility while avoiding associations that could undermine public trust. For the families and supporters of Gauri Lankesh—whose murder case remains emotionally charged—the images particularly stung, appearing to show her accused killer enjoying casual access to top police officials.