Madikeri: Advocate K.R. Vidyadhar, who made derogatory remarks on social media about Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa and General K.S. Thimayya, has been suspended for six months by the Madikeri Bar Association, according to its President,  M.A. Niranjan.

Cases have been filed against Vidyadhar, a Bar Association Member, for defaming the illustrious Kodava community Military leaders who rendered exceptional service to the Indian Defence Forces.

Responding to strong opposition from civil society, the Bar Association convened a special general meeting to address  the issue.

Members unanimously condemned Vidyadhar’s remarks, issued a notice seeking an explanation and decided on disciplinary action to uphold the Association’s integrity.

Niranjan confirmed the six-month suspension, a decision welcomed by Kodagu District BJP General Secretary Mahesh Jaini. Jaini demanded Vidyadhar’s expulsion from Kodagu, stating, “He has sown seeds of discord in the community and created societal unrest.”

Former Karnataka Law Minister and Senior Bar Association Member M.C. Nanaiah also condemned the remarks and urged Kodagu Superintendent of Police K. Ramarajan to initiate legal proceedings against Vidyadhar. “Blaming an entire community for the actions of one individual is unacceptable,” said Nanaiah, appealing for peace and supporting the suspension.

Late Friday night, Kodagu Police arrested Vidyadhar for his offensive remarks. He was produced before the Judicial Magistrate First Class (JMFC) Court in Madikeri, which granted him conditional bail.