HUBBALLI: The alleged assault and stripping of a BJP woman worker during her arrest in Hubballi has triggered a major political and legal storm in Karnataka, with the National Commission for Women (NCW) taking suo motu cognisance of the incident. The move comes after an objectionable video showing the woman being allegedly assaulted by police personnel, with her clothes torn, went viral on social media, drawing widespread outrage.
Taking serious note of the visuals, NCW Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar strongly condemned the incident, calling it a gross violation of a woman’s dignity, bodily integrity and personal liberty. The Commission has written a detailed letter to the Director General of Police (DGP), Karnataka, seeking immediate action and accountability.
In its communication, the NCW has directed the Karnataka Police to immediately register an FIR in connection with the incident and conduct a fair, impartial and time-bound investigation using all available video evidence. The Commission has stressed that strict disciplinary and legal action must be initiated against police officers found guilty of dereliction of duty or inappropriate conduct with the woman.
The NCW has also instructed state authorities to ensure the victim receives necessary medical assistance, psychological counselling, and legal support. Emphasising the seriousness of the matter, the Commission has sought a detailed action-taken report from the Karnataka government within five days.
The incident has further escalated political tensions in Hubballi-Dharwad, with police registering a counter-case at the Keshwapur police station. A total of nine persons, including Hubballi–Dharwad Municipal Corporation Congress councillor Suvarna Kalakuntla and an individual identified as David, have been booked in connection with the episode.
According to police, the accused have been charged under several stringent provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including Sections 109 (attempt to murder), 115(2), 118(1), 189(2), 191(2), 74, 190 and 351, which relate to serious offences such as criminal conspiracy, rioting, threat to life and obstruction of public servants.
Home minister G Parameshwara said that there is no need to hand over the investigation of the Ballari incident to the CBI as the state police are fully capable of probing the case.
Speaking to reporters, Parameshwara stated that a CBI inquiry would arise only if the state police were unable to conduct a fair and effective investigation. “There is no such situation at present. The Cabinet has already taken a clear decision that no cases will be handed over to the CBI,” he said.
Responding to Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy’s remarks seeking a CBI probe, Parameshwara said Kumaraswamy had served twice as Chief Minister of Karnataka and is currently the Union Minister for Heavy Industries. “He has made a statement directed at me personally. I could respond in the same manner, but I believe he has made his comments responsibly, and I accept them as such,” he said.
Parameshwara further asserted his experience in public life, noting he was well aware of how the legal and administrative systems function. “I have been in politics for 38 years and have held several positions. I have also worked alongside Kumaraswamy, and he is aware of my strengths and my approach. I do not take his statement seriously,” he added.
The BJP, however, has rejected the government’s explanation, alleging police brutality and misuse of power against its woman worker. Party leaders have accused the Congress-led state government of shielding errant police officials and demanded immediate suspension of those involved.
Civil rights groups and women’s organisations have also demanded an independent probe, stating that regardless of political affiliation, the dignity of a woman in police custody must be protected at all costs.
