In a shocking display of insensitivity and negligence, Karnataka Home Minister Dr. G. Parameshwar has come under fire for his remarks regarding a recent sexual assault incident involving a young woman in Bengaluru. Following the backlash, he attempted to clarify his statements by issuing an apology, asserting that his comments were misconstrued. However, many citizens and public figures are condemning his initial remarks as dangerously dismissive of a serious and ongoing issue: the safety of women in the state.
The incident that sparked this controversy occurred late on April 3 in the Bharathi Layout area of Suddaguntepalya. A young man was seen following two women home when he aggressively assaulted one of them by groping her. The disturbing act was recorded on CCTV, revealing the panic of the victim as she screamed for help. This heinous act has ignited widespread outrage, bringing to light the persistent issues of violence against women in a city that is often touted for its vibrant urban life.
Dr. Parameshwar’s response to the public outcries following the incident was, at best, inadequate and at worst, dangerously misleading. During a press interaction, he controversially stated, “Sexual assaults are common in cities like Bengaluru.” This cavalier remark, which seems to normalize violence against women, unleashed a wave of condemnation from the public and political opposition alike. Many perceived his statement as a shocking admission of defeat, indicating a failure to protect the women of Karnataka.
Critics, including members of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Janata Dal (Secular) [JDS], were quick to denounce his comments as reflective of a broader systemic failure in ensuring women’s safety. The BJP’s Karnataka chief, BY Vijayendra, strongly criticized Dr. Parameshwar, arguing that his remarks illustrate a shocking disconnect from the realities facing women in the state. “His statements show a failure of the legal system and governance in Karnataka,” Vijayendra noted, pointing to the alarming rise in violence against women since the current administration took power. The JDS escalated their criticisms, labeling him an “incompetent minister” who trivialises the horrors of sexual violence.
As public outrage swelled, Dr. Parameshwar attempted to backtrack on his statements, offering a flawed apology. He claimed, “I would like to clarify that the statement I made yesterday was misunderstood,” while also stressing his commitment to women’s safety through mechanisms like the Nirbhaya fund. Yet, this feels more like a poor attempt to save face rather than a genuine acknowledgment of his failings. His comments have demonstrated not only a lack of sensitivity but also a troubling disregard for the urgent need to confront and address violence against women in Karnataka.
Moreover, the incident has laid bare ongoing inadequacies in women’s safety measures across the state. Activists have called for urgent reforms in policing and legal frameworks, emphasizing the need for systemic change to protect women from violence. Current policies seem insufficient in the face of rising incidents of sexual violence, urging the need for comprehensive reforms that can genuinely safeguard the rights and well-being of women in the region.
Following the incident, authorities have registered a case under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for molestation, sexual harassment, and stalking. Deputy Commissioner of Police (Southeast Bengaluru) Sarah Fathima has acknowledged the challenges in identifying the perpetrator due to unclear video footage but assured the public that investigative efforts are ongoing. Multiple teams are reportedly working tirelessly to apprehend the assailant.
In response to the growing outcry, the Karnataka State Women Commission has demanded a thorough investigation into the matter. The National Commission for Women (NCW) has also taken notice, highlighting the necessity for effective measures to address violence against women comprehensively.
