Bengaluru: A shocking case of molestation in Bengaluru’s Bharati Layout has triggered a wave of public anger, particularly after Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara’s controversial response. CCTV footage from the early hours of April 3 captured a man groping a woman walking with her friend before fleeing the scene. The disturbing video quickly went viral, prompting the Bengaluru police to register a suo motu case under Section 354B of the IPC, even though the victim has not yet filed a formal complaint.
Minister’s Comment Draws Sharp Criticism
Home Minister G Parameshwara’s remark that “incidents like these tend to happen in big cities” has been widely condemned. While he assured that legal action would be taken and directed the police to increase beat patrolling, critics accused him of trivializing the incident. BJP leader Shehzad Poonawalla labeled the statement as “misogynistic, patriarchal, sexist and obnoxious,” asserting that it reflects a lack of seriousness from the government.
Pattern of Negligence?
This isn’t the first time such an incident has occurred in Bengaluru. In August last year, a woman was similarly groped during her morning walk in Konanakunte. Though the accused was arrested, the recurrence of such crimes points to a deeper issue of safety in the city. Government data from 2023 showed 3,260 crimes against women in Bengaluru, with 1,135 cases involving molestation.
A Call for Accountability
As public frustration mounts, citizens and activists are demanding stronger measures, quicker action, and more sensitivity from leaders. Bengaluru’s status as a tech hub cannot overshadow the need for basic safety. The government must act decisively—not just legally, but morally.
