Bengaluru, September 7, 2025: Former IAS officer and Tiruvallur (Tamil Nadu) MP Shashikanth Senthil has filed a criminal defamation case against Gangavathi MLA Gali Janardhana Reddy in a Bengaluru special court. The case stems from Reddy’s statements to the media, accusing Senthil of being "anti-Hindu" and instigating others to defame Sri Kshetra Dharmasthala.
Senthil personally appeared before Special Magistrate K.N. Shivakumar on Saturday to file the defamation case. Represented by advocates Surya Mukundaraj and Sanjay Yadav, Senthil’s plea was accepted, and the court has scheduled the hearing for September 11.TRASE Block Heels Sandals For Women, Dusky Stylish & Comfortable Footwear
During his tenure as Dakshina Kannada District Commissioner from 2017 to 2019, Senthil took stringent measures to curb illegal sand mining in the district. In 2017, during severe floods in Mangaluru, he efficiently led rescue operations and implemented permanent measures to prevent future flooding. Recognized as a proactive and responsive administrator, Senthil alleges that Reddy’s baseless and politically motivated accusations aim to tarnish his reputation.
The defamation case also highlights Senthil’s prior stint in Ballari, where he assisted the CEC and CBI in exposing illegal activities linked to Reddy, who was an MLA at the time. Senthil claims that Reddy, harboring a grudge, is attempting to hinder his rising political career as a national leader. Between August 18 and 21, 2025, Reddy made statements to regional news channels, calling Senthil “anti-Hindu,” the “mastermind” behind the Dharmasthala case, and accusing him of instigating others to defame Sri Kshetra Dharmasthala. These claims, also reported by some print media, are cited in the complaint as baseless.Dharmasthala Case: Accused Chinnayya Sentenced to 14 Days of Judicial Custody
Senthil asserts that Reddy’s malicious and unfounded statements have severely damaged his reputation and social standing, causing public suspicion and personal distress. The remarks have also impacted his work as a Member of Parliament. Senthil has urged the court to take action against Reddy under Sections 356(1) and 356(2) of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) for criminal defamation.