Riddhi Patel Arrested After Rant At Bakersfield City Council Meeting

India-West News Desk

BAKERSFIELD, CA – Riddhi Patel, sparked controversy with her inflammatory remarks during a Bakersfield City Council meeting, resulting in her arrest on April 10 night. Facing 18 felony charges, Patel threatened to “murder” council members and Mayor Karen Goh, prompting swift action from law enforcement.

During the public comments section of the council meeting, Patel, 28, launched into an anti-Israel tirade, invoking Mahatma Gandhi and the Hindu festival Chaitra Navaratri. However, her speech took a disturbing turn when she issued threats of violence against city officials, including Mayor Goh.

Patel’s comments, captured on video and widely circulated online, drew swift condemnation from various quarters.

In addition to her recent outburst, Patel’s past social media activity also came under scrutiny, with a previous Facebook post from 2021 resurfacing. In the post, she directed expletive-laden hate towards Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other figures associated with the Bharatiya Janata Party, as well as individuals of Indian descent.

She was produced in court two days later where she was seen sobbing uncontrollably.

A public defender entered a not guilty plea on Patel’s behalf.

Patel will remain in police custody on a $2 million bond. She is will next appear in court on April 24.