Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara on Tuesday issued a public apology following widespread criticism for his controversial remark on the recent Bengaluru molestation case. The minister had earlier stated that “incidents like this take place here and there” in big cities like Bengaluru, prompting outrage from the public and opposition leaders.
“I want to clarify that the statement I made yesterday wasn’t understood properly. I am someone who has always had a lot of concern for the safety of women. I have ensured Nirbhaya funds are utilised well for the safety of women,” Parameshwara said, as quoted by NDTV.
Facing mounting criticism, the minister sought to clear the air and express remorse. “I don’t want my statement to be twisted. If any women have been hurt by this, I express my regret and apologise,” he added.
The controversy erupted after a disturbing incident came to light in which a man was seen on CCTV groping a woman on a Bengaluru street before fleeing the scene. Reacting to the case, Parameshwara told reporters on Monday, “In a big city like Bengaluru, incidents like this take place here and there,” adding that the police are working “round-the-clock ignoring rain and cold” to maintain peace in the city.
His remarks were quickly condemned by various groups, including the opposition BJP, who accused the Congress-led state government of insensitivity and negligence. “This is such an insensitive remark. Is he normalising sexual assault and crimes against women? He is shying away from responsibility and doesn’t want to be accountable,” BJP spokesperson Prashanth G said, as reported by NDTV.
Attempting to shift focus to the government’s efforts, Parameshwara detailed the directions given to the police to intensify safety measures. He said he has instructed Bengaluru Police Commissioner B Dayananda to enhance patrolling and ensure the beat system is strictly followed. “I tell him that patrolling should happen in every area in a disciplined and effective way. We take action as per law. The beat system has to be made very effective. That is the reason that I directed the police commissioner about it,” he noted.
