FIR registered over anti-government posters with political undertones in Bengaluru

Bengaluru police have filed a suo motu FIR against the website Saakappasaaku.com and unknown individuals after a series of anti-government posters surfaced across central parts of the city. The posters, critical of the Congress-led state government, appeared on BMTC bus shelters near Maharani College Junction, KR Circle, and outside the BBMP headquarters.

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Displaying the slogan “Sakappasaku Congress Sarkara” — loosely translating to “Enough is enough, Congress government” — the posters featured a QR code urging people to scan and support the campaign. The website Saakappasaaku.com was prominently mentioned on each poster.

Following a tip-off on Wednesday evening, Halasurgate police reached the locations and removed the posters. Sub-inspector Mahadev HJ lodged a complaint, leading to the registration of a case under the Karnataka Open Place Disfigurement Act, which prohibits unauthorized public defacement.

Authorities conducted a mahazar (spot inspection) and are analyzing CCTV footage to trace those behind the campaign. Officials are also preparing to issue notices to the administrators of the website and other suspected participants.

Investigators noted that the website hosts images of leaders associated with a major political party, indicating potential political motivations. The case has reignited concerns about the misuse of public property for political propaganda and the growing influence of anonymous digital campaigns, especially with the strategic use of QR codes in the run-up to elections.