Who is Fauzia Tarannum? IRS-IAS Officer Faces BJP’s Derogatory Remark

Karnataka: Fauzia Tarannum, a 2014-batch IAS officer, has carved an inspiring path from the Indian Revenue Service to becoming the Deputy Commissioner of Kalaburagi, Karnataka. With an impressive 31st rank in the UPSC examination, she transitioned from IRS to IAS, showcasing her dedication and competence. A recipient of the prestigious Presidential Award for Best Electoral Practices, Tarannum has earned widespread respect for her integrity and commitment to public service. Her role as an administrative leader has been pivotal in driving development in Kalaburagi, a region often fraught with challenges.

The Controversial Remark

On May 24, 2025, during a BJP-led “Kalaburagi Chalo” protest rally, BJP MLC N. Ravikumar sparked outrage by labeling Tarannum “Pakistani” while questioning her impartiality as an IAS officer. The remark, made in a public address, suggested she was acting under Congress influence, escalating political tensions in the state. Ravikumar’s statement, “I don’t know whether the Kalaburagi DC has come from Pakistan or is an IAS officer here,” drew sharp criticism for its communal undertones, prompting widespread condemnation from civil society and political leaders alike.

Backlash and Legal Action

The derogatory comment led to immediate repercussions. An FIR was filed against Ravikumar under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, and the Karnataka IAS Officers Association condemned the remark, demanding an apology. Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar announced swift action, emphasizing Tarannum’s impeccable record. Minister Priyank Kharge called the statement “anti-social,” questioning Ravikumar’s own patriotism. Ravikumar later issued an apology, expressing regret for his “inadvertent” remarks, but the damage to public discourse was already done.

A Broader Call for Respect

The incident has reignited discussions about the challenges faced by civil servants, particularly those from minority communities, in navigating politically charged environments. The IAS Officers Association reiterated its support for Tarannum, praising her dedication and urging authorities to protect officers from such attacks. This controversy underscores the need for respectful dialogue and the importance of shielding public servants from communal slurs, ensuring they can perform their duties without fear of criticism.