Bengaluru: The Special Court for Elected Representatives on Saturday accepted for hearing the private complaint filed by Tamil Nadu's Tiruvallur MP Shashikant Senthil against Gangavati MLA Gali Janardhan Reddy, alleging that Reddy made baseless statements related to the Dharmasthala case that defamed him, and seeking legal action against the MLA.Also Read: Polygamy Not Permissible for Muslim Man Without Means: Kerala High Court Statement

The order, reserved after hearing arguments on whether to take up the complaint filed by former IAS officer Shashikant Senthil, was pronounced by the 42nd Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate KN Shivakumar in Bengaluru. The court informed that it has accepted the private complaint for trial and adjourned the proceedings to September 29 for recording the complainant's sworn statement. Advocates Surya Mukundaraj and Sanjay Yadav appeared for Senthil.Vogaan Men's Polo Shirt and Shorts Set | Summer Fashion Short Sleeve Solid Zipper 2 Pieces Outfits for Men

In the complaint, Senthil has stated that Janardhan Reddy, with malicious political intent, mentioned his name and made baseless false accusations. Senthil noted that when he was previously posted in Ballari, Janardhan Reddy was the MLA there. During that time, Senthil had assisted the CBI and ED in connection with irregularities committed by Reddy in Ballari and had exposed several scams, which led to Reddy harboring resentment against him.

Between August 18 and 21, 2025, Reddy gave statements to several regional news channels in the state, accusing Senthil of being "anti-Hindu," the "mastermind" behind the Dharmasthala case, and "instigating certain individuals to bring disrepute to Sri Kshetra Dharmasthala." These statements have also been reported by some print media, as mentioned in the complaint.

The malicious statements by the accused have caused severe damage to the complainant's reputation and social standing, leading people to view him with suspicion and resulting in deep depression for Senthil. It has also impacted his work as a Member of Parliament. Therefore, MP Shashikant Senthil has filed the complaint seeking action against the accused under Sections 356(1) and 356(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNSS).Also Read: Bangladesh Stuns Sri Lanka in Thrilling Asia Cup Super Fours Opener: here is the info about "Naagin Derby" rivalry.