What Happened to the BJP Woman Worker Assaulted by Police in Karnataka?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Allegations of police brutality against a BJP woman worker in Hubballi have raised serious concerns.
- The incident is linked to a voter revision dispute involving political rivalries.
- Calls for accountability and reform in law enforcement are increasing.
- Political leaders are demanding immediate action against those involved.
- The community is in shock over the disturbing video evidence.
In Hubballi, Karnataka, on January 7 (NationPress), an incident involving the alleged assault and stripping of a BJP female worker by police has caused significant outrage, reportedly linked to a controversy surrounding a voter revision initiative. A video capturing the event emerged on Wednesday, sparking widespread shock and alarm.
The footage purportedly depicts male officers attacking the woman and using offensive language.
This incident unfolded within the jurisdiction of the Keshvapur police station. Sources indicate that BJP worker Sujatha Handi, also referred to as Vijayalaxmi Handi, was reportedly assaulted following a complaint made by Congress corporator Suvarna Kallakuntla.
It is claimed that Sujatha Handi was targeted after she participated in voter mapping as part of the voter list revision process. Allegedly incensed by this, the Congress corporator filed a grievance against her at the Keshvapur police station.
During the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the voter list, tensions escalated as Sujatha Handi accompanied electoral officials. Congress corporators and their supporters reportedly caused a disturbance by referencing a previous case during this revision.
Suvarna Kallakuntla, who lodged the complaint against Sujatha Handi, claimed that she had influenced SIR-BLO officials, leading to the removal of voters' names. Previously, confrontations had been reported between BJP and Congress members over similar allegations.
It is now alleged that, citing this matter, a complaint was filed against Sujatha Handi, prompting police to attempt her arrest. During this operation, officers purportedly resorted to violence against her. In the video, a male officer is shown grasping the BJP woman worker's shoulder while she appears to be undressed.
In response to the incident, BJP MLA Mahesh Tenginakayi condemned the act as barbaric and an affront to women. He demanded the immediate suspension of all police personnel involved, asserting that they could endanger others in the future.
Tenginakayi explained that the conflict began when Booth Level Officers (BLOs) initiated voter mapping in the area, leading to the escalation of tensions.
While questioning the state of law enforcement, Tenginakayi stated he had visited the party worker's home, claiming that the Congress corporator had intruded and created a disturbance. He alleged that three FIRs had initially been filed against the BJP worker, with police now reporting eight cases against her. 'Who is behind these complaints, and what are the unseen forces at play?' he inquired.
He urged Home Minister G. Parameshwara to take action on this issue, indicating that discussions would be held with Union Minister Pralhad Joshi and BJP state president B.Y. Vijayendra.
Meanwhile, the police have asserted that the BJP worker voluntarily removed her clothing. However, the victim contends that the police acted violently while enforcing a complaint lodged by a Congress corporator related to the voter revision issue.
A formal response from the police regarding this incident is still awaited. Further details are expected soon.