Kris Gopalakrishnan calls SC/ST Act case against him a misuse of law, says truth will prevail

Infosys co-founder Kris Gopalakrishnan, one of 17 individuals charged under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, has expressed disappointment over the case, alleging that the law meant to safeguard marginalised communities has been misused to level false accusations against him.

“I have always upheld the values of fairness, justice, and respect for all, irrespective of their background. It is deeply disheartening that a law designed to protect the marginalised has been misused to make false allegations against me,” Gopalakrishnan said in a statement.

The case was registered by Bengaluru police on Monday against Gopalakrishnan, former Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Director Balaram, and 16 others, following directions from the 71st City Civil and Sessions Court. The complaint was filed by Durgappa, a former faculty member at IISc’s Centre for Sustainable Technology and a member of the Bovi tribal community.

Durgappa alleges that he was falsely implicated in a 2014 honey trap case, which led to his dismissal. He further claims he was subjected to caste-based discrimination and threats.

Gopalakrishnan, who currently serves as chairman of the IISc Council, clarified that his association with the institute began in 2022—several years after the alleged incidents.

“IISc has well-defined policies for fair and transparent investigations, which fall under the purview of the executive management,” he stated.

The Karnataka High Court has since stayed all further investigation and proceedings against him and others under the SC/ST Act.

“As the matter is before the courts, I will refrain from further comment. I have full faith in the judiciary and trust that justice will prevail,” Gopalakrishnan added.

A Padma Bhushan awardee in 2011, Gopalakrishnan has also served as Infosys CEO (2007–2011), vice-chairman (2011–2014), president of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), and co-chair of the World Economic Forum.