Karnataka Home Minister Issues Apology Over Remarks on Sexual Assault Case
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Synopsis
Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara apologized for his controversial remarks about a sexual assault case, clarifying that they were misinterpreted. His comments followed public outrage after a viral video of the incident. Criticism from opposition leaders highlighted ongoing crime issues in the state.
Key Takeaways
- G. Parameshwara apologized for his remarks on a sexual assault case.
- His comments sparked significant public backlash.
- Police are investigating the incident, with an FIR filed.
- Opposition criticized the state government for rising crime rates.
- The Nirbhaya scheme funds were mentioned to highlight women's safety initiatives.
Bengaluru, April 8 (NationPress) Karnataka's Home Minister G. Parameshwara issued an apology on Tuesday for his contentious remark about a sexual assault incident in Bengaluru, referred to as the “big city incident”.
His apology followed backlash from his statement that “such incidents occur here and there in a big city”, which sparked significant controversy.
Addressing the media in Bengaluru, Parameshwara stated, “I wish to clarify my statement. It was miscommunicated to the public. If my remarks have hurt our mothers and sisters, I sincerely apologize.”
He asserted that his comment was taken out of context, emphasizing, “I have consistently advocated for the safety of women. We have initiated numerous programs, and our state has allocated a substantial portion of the funds under the Nirbhaya scheme.”
The Home Minister remarked, “Should I disclose data on murders and other crimes from the time the BJP was in power? People would find it amusing if the BJP claims no crimes occurred during their administration.”
Parameshwara made the “big city incident” comment after a brief video surfaced showing a man groping a woman before fleeing, which went viral on Sunday. This incident took place around 2 a.m. on April 4 within the jurisdiction of the Sadduguntepalya police station.
The police have filed an FIR based on a complaint from a local resident and are actively seeking the suspect while gathering further evidence.
On Monday, Karnataka BJP President B. Y. Vijayendra criticized the state Home Minister, stating that Parameshwara's comments were a clear indication of a breakdown in law and order.
Vijayendra noted that since Congress assumed power in Karnataka, the state has faced an ongoing wave of crimes, including murder, robbery, extortion, and assaults against women and children.
“The Home Minister's comment trivializing the harassment of a young woman in broad daylight as a 'routine incident' has damaged the state's reputation internationally. His statements reveal nothing but his ineptitude,” he added.
