Bengaluru Court Dismisses IFS Officer's Plea in Sexual Harassment Case
A special court in Bengaluru has dismissed a revision petition filed by Indian Forest Service officer R Ravishankar. The petition challenged a trial court order that took cognisance of a sexual harassment and cheating case against him.
Details of the Case
The case originates from a private complaint lodged by a woman who worked as an office assistant. She named Ravishankar, the chief conservator of forest for development in Bengaluru, as the primary accused. The complaint also included RR Nagar MLA N Munirathna as a respondent. Due to the involvement of an elected representative, the matter was transferred to a special court designated for such cases.
Ravishankar argued in his petition that the complainant approached him during 2018-19 as an environmentalist. She sought his assistance for organizing environmental programs and improving plantations. According to his submission, the allegations against him arose only after he refused to meet her demands. He maintained his innocence, stating there was no evidence to suggest his guilt. He sought to quash the June 2022 order that acknowledged the case.
Court's Observations
Special judge Santhosh Gajanan Bhat noted the complainant's allegations in detail. The complaint stated that Ravishankar developed a relationship with her through Facebook. Their friendship grew over a year of regular chatting. The woman alleged that Ravishankar presented himself as the chief conservator of forests and claimed to be unmarried, despite being married at the time. This misrepresentation, she argued, led to the sexual harassment and cheating charges.
The judge pointed out that the complaint clearly described how Ravishankar initiated contact and fostered the relationship under false pretenses. These averments were presented before the trial court, forming the basis for taking cognisance of the case.
Implications of the Dismissal
The dismissal of the revision petition means the trial court's order stands. The case will proceed further in the legal system. This development highlights the ongoing scrutiny of misconduct allegations against public officials. It underscores the importance of accountability in positions of authority.
The special court's decision reinforces the need for thorough investigation into such complaints. It also reflects the judicial system's role in addressing grievances related to harassment and deceit.
