Gujarat IPS Association Moves SEC Against AAP MLA Gopal Italia Over ‘Derogatory’ Remarks

Gandhinagar: The Gujarat chapter of the IPS Association has formally submitted a memorandum to the State Election Commissioner, condemning Visavadar MLA Gopal Italia for allegedly using “abusive, derogatory and defamatory” language against the state’s police force and election machinery.

The controversy stems from a Facebook Live video uploaded by Italia on April 26, 2026, which was later circulated widely on social media platforms. According to the memorandum, he used highly inflammatory language, including the term “dalla,” directed at senior police officers and personnel.

The Association described the remarks as a “personal affront” and a “calculated attempt to incite public distrust,” alleging that they undermine the rule of law during a sensitive election period.

In the memorandum, signed by President Gyanender Singh Malik, IPS, and Secretary Nipuna M. Torawane, IPS, the Association emphasised that while constructive criticism is a cornerstone of democracy, “character assassination is unacceptable.” It noted that police officers work under challenging conditions to ensure security for all citizens, irrespective of political affiliation.

The Association has urged the State Election Commission to take strict action against the MLA, calling it a clear violation of the Model Code of Conduct. It added that such action is necessary to boost the morale of the election machinery and maintain public trust in the fairness of the electoral process.

Copies of the memorandum have also been submitted to the Principal Secretary of the Home Department and the Director General and Inspector General of Police (DG & IGP), Gujarat.