Why Are 12 Arrests Made in The Vulgar Messages Case Against Kannada Actress Ramya?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- 12 arrests made in the case of abusive messages targeting Ramya.
- Police are pursuing more suspects involved in the harassment.
- Ramya emphasized the need for justice and women's rights in her complaint.
- Support from the film industry is crucial in combating online abuse.
- Authorities are urged to take stronger action against misogyny on social media.
Bengaluru, Aug 30 (NationPress) The total number of arrests in the case involving the distribution of obscene messages directed at Kannada actress and former MP Ramya has now reached 12. The police are actively pursuing additional suspects involved in this troubling situation. All individuals apprehended are reported to be supporters of the imprisoned actor Darshan.
Ramya became a target for these fans after she commented on a murder case involving a fan, stating that justice should prevail.
The latest arrests occurred in northern Karnataka, where the suspects were found to work at small businesses. Previously, nine individuals were detained in various locations including Bengaluru, Vijayapura, and Chitradurga.
The Central Crime Branch (CCB) has identified 10 more social media accounts linked to the case and is searching for their users. Some of the suspects are evading capture, having deleted their posts and gone into hiding. However, the police have acquired substantial information and are diligently pursuing these individuals.
Ramya filed a police report against 43 social media accounts, with some users even issuing rape threats against her.
On the evening of July 28, she lodged a complaint with Bengaluru Police Commissioner Seemanth Kumar Singh against Darshan's fans for sending obscene and defamatory messages in response to her comments about the fan murder case.
She stated, “I shared news about the Supreme Court's recent decision on Darshan’s bail petition to provide hope for justice. Following that, the online harassment began. I am raising my voice for women.”
“I have reported 43 social media accounts. Some threats included rape. If this can happen to me, what about others? Commissioner Singh has promised action and has transferred the case to the Cyber Crime Wing. Women deserve the same freedom as men. Darshan should have advised his fans against posting such messages,” she continued.
“As public figures, we must adhere to the law and set an example. Previously, renowned actors like Yash and Kichcha Sudeep were also targeted online. I raised concerns then as well. Had action been taken earlier, this situation might not have escalated,” she emphasized.
Ramya further noted that many offenders used fake profiles with female names to share indecent images. Although she has received support from the film industry, many women are hesitant to speak up due to fears of character assassination.
In her complaint, she indicated, “The disappointed fans of Darshan, reacting to my news sharing about the Supreme Court proceedings, have sent me scandalous, ghastly, and obnoxious messages through various accounts. The content is so vile and misogynistic that I cannot even include it in the complaint.”
The Film Industry for Rights and Equality (FIRE) organization has sent a letter to Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara, demanding swift action against the vulgar and misogynistic social media abuse directed at Ramya.
In response to the offensive messages and videos shared by Darshan's fans against Ramya, the Karnataka State Women’s Commission has urged Commissioner Singh to take appropriate action.