Bengaluru molestation case: Karnataka home minister G Parameshwara apologises after backlash over ‘such incidents do happen’ remark | Bengaluru News
BENGALURU: Karnataka Home minister G Parameshwara has apologised after his comment on a molestation case in Bengaluru triggered widespread criticism.
The minister drew widespread criticism on Monday after responding to concerns over a CCTV-captured molestation in Bharathi Layout with the remark, “In a big city like Bengaluru, incidents like this do take place here and there.”
Clarifying his stance, Parameshwara Tuesday said, “My statement was misunderstood. I have always been concerned about women’s safety and ensured the proper use of Nirbhaya funds. I don’t want my words to be twisted. If any woman has been hurt by what I said, I express my regret and apologise.”
His comments came as police continued efforts to trace the man caught on camera stalking two women around 1.52am on April 3 and pinning one of them against a wall.
The BJP launched a scathing attack on the minister, with party spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla calling him a “serial offender” in making insensitive remarks on crimes against women. “This is a brazen display of a misogynist, patriarchal, sexist and obnoxious mindset,” he said in Delhi, also accusing the Congress-led Karnataka government of failing to protect women.
KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara faced backlash for his comments on a molestation case in Bengaluru, suggesting such incidents are commonplace in a big city.
- After widespread criticism, G Parameshwara clarified that his statement was misunderstood and expressed regret for any hurt caused to women.
- The Bharatiya Janata Party criticized G Parameshwara’s remarks, labeling him a ‘serial offender’ for insensitivity towards crimes against women, and accused the Congress-led Karnataka government of failing to ensure women’s safety.
