Bengaluru, 17 May 

A case has been registered against the owner of GS Suites, a hotel in Maruthi Nagar, Koramangala, after an LED display board on the premises allegedly flashed derogatory remarks targeting the Kannada language and Kannadigas. The offensive message, which appeared on Friday night, sparked public outrage and went viral on social media.

Alert residents reported the incident to Madiwala Police, who promptly arrived, verified the content, and seized the display board as evidence. A suo motu case was filed by the police sub-inspector monitoring social media. The display was immediately taken down.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (Southeast) Sarah Fathima confirmed that a case had been registered against the hotel owner, who is currently said to be abroad. Five hotel staff members have been detained for questioning. Notices will be issued to all those linked to the incident.

Preliminary investigation revealed that the hotel had raised concerns with the signage vendor in Koramangala about unauthorised messages appearing on the board. The signage contract was issued three years ago, and unusual messages reportedly began appearing on 8 May.

Authorities are investigating whether the display system was hacked or misused. Representatives of the vendor have been summoned to explain the technical functioning of the system and help trace how the objectionable message was uploaded.

The incident has drawn strong condemnation from local Kannada groups and the wider public. Police have assured that strict action will be taken against those responsible, and electronic evidence is being collected to support the inquiry.