The president of the BJP's women's wing in Karnataka, C Manjula, made a significant visit to Hubballi on Thursday, meeting with a female party worker who claims to have been brutally assaulted by police personnel. The incident has sparked widespread condemnation and calls for a judicial probe.
Political Leaders Condemn Alleged Police Brutality
C Manjula, the State BJP Mahila Morcha president, strongly criticized the state government during her visit to the worker's home. She stated that the alleged assault proves women are not safe under the current administration. Manjula demanded an investigation led by a judge and expressed disappointment that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, while celebrating his long tenure, had not condemned the act.
She issued a stern warning, announcing plans to file a complaint with the National Commission for Women (NCW). "Action should be taken against those responsible for this assault," Manjula told reporters. She also pointed out the silence of Women and Child Welfare Minister Laxmi Hebbalkar. The BJP leader threatened to launch a statewide protest if the government fails to act promptly.
National Bodies Step In: NCW and NHRC React
The National Commission for Women (NCW) took suo motu cognizance of the case after a disturbing video from Hubballi went viral. The video allegedly shows the female party worker being assaulted and her clothes torn during arrest. NCW chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar strongly condemned the incident, calling it a grave violation of a woman's dignity and personal liberty.
The commission has written to the Director General of Police (DGP) of Karnataka, directing a fair and time-bound investigation. Key demands include examining video evidence, initiating strict departmental and criminal action against officials if found guilty, and ensuring the victim receives medical aid, psychological support, and compensation. The NCW has asked for a detailed Action Taken Report (ATR) within five days.
Adding to the pressure, MLC Bharathi Shetty has written to the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), requesting a team visit the spot to probe what she described as an "inhuman and heinous" incident where a woman was allegedly stripped inside a police vehicle.
Background of the Case and Police Response
The incident stems from a complaint filed by a woman named Sujata's family. In connection with this case, corporator Suvarna Kalakuntla was taken into police custody. According to DCP (Law & Order) Mahaning Nandagavi, Kalakuntla experienced health issues during the procedure and was subsequently taken to KMC-RI Hospital for a medical check-up.
The convergence of political outrage, intervention by national commissions, and the serious nature of the allegations has put the Karnataka police and the state government under intense scrutiny. The coming days are critical as investigations unfold and the state responds to the demands for accountability.
