Bengaluru:
At a government event held at Sira in Tumakuru district of Karnataka on Thursday, IAS officer (probationary) Preethi Gehlot was seen chewing gum while the state anthem was being played.
Also present at the event was Chief Minister Siddaramaiah who laid the foundation for various development works.
When state anthem started playing, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and other dignitaries stood up in respect of the state anthem. Preethi, while standing, was seen chewing gum.
The footage also showed her continuing chewing the gum after she took the seat following the playing of the anthem.
This has been termed as an insult to the state anthem and was widely criticised by people.
Chief Secretary of Karnataka Ratna Prabha later issued orders for her suspension.
