Bengaluru molestation case: Karnataka home minister G Parameshwara apologises after backlash over 'such incidents do happen' remark

Manu Aiyappa / TNN / Updated: Apr 8, 2025, 11:29 IST

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Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara has apologized for his controversial statement regarding a molestation case in Bengaluru, which sparked widespread criticism. His initial remark, suggesting such incidents are common in big cities, drew strong backlash. He clarified that his words were misunderstood and expressed regret if any woman was hurt, while the BJP criticized him for insensitive remarks.

Bengaluru molestation case: Karnataka home minister G Parameshwara apologises after backlash over 'such incidents do happen' remark

Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara apologized after his remarks on a Bengaluru molestation case sparked outrage. He initially stated such incidents occur in big cities, drawing criticism.

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.”

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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.

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