Intro:
A wedding celebration turned controversial after a Congress leader was seen dancing with a gun, triggering widespread debate.
Kalaburagi
A video showing a Congress leader dancing with a firearm at a wedding ceremony has gone viral on social media, sparking sharp reactions and raising serious questions about public conduct and safety. The incident involves Mateen Patel, whose actions during a private marriage function have drawn criticism from multiple quarters.
In the viral video, Mateen Patel is seen holding a gun and dancing enthusiastically to a song from the Kannada film Durandhar. Surrounded by guests cheering him on, the leader appears visibly relaxed and celebratory, waving the firearm while matching steps to the music. The visuals, however, have alarmed many viewers, who have questioned the appropriateness of brandishing a weapon in a public gathering, even if the event was a private function.
Soon after the video began circulating widely on platforms such as WhatsApp, Instagram, and X, reactions poured in from the public. While some supporters attempted to downplay the incident as a moment of personal celebration, a large section of netizens expressed concern over the normalization of guns at social events, especially when public representatives are involved.
Legal experts and social commentators have pointed out that displaying firearms in public or semi-public spaces can violate arms regulations, depending on licensing conditions. They also warned that such actions set a dangerous precedent, particularly in a society already grappling with issues of violence and misuse of weapons. Many questioned whether a political leader should be more mindful of the message such behaviour sends to young people and followers.
Opposition voices within political circles have also seized upon the incident, demanding clarification from the Congress party and urging authorities to examine whether any laws were violated. Public leaders must uphold dignity and responsibility. Dancing with a gun, regardless of the occasion, is unacceptable, said a senior political observer.
As of now, there has been no official statement from Mateen Patel regarding the video. Police sources said they are aware of the footage circulating online and are verifying details, including whether the firearm was licensed and if any legal norms were breached during the event.
