“Tends to happen in big cities”: Karnataka Home Minister’s remark on Bengaluru molestation sparks outrage

A shocking case of street molestation in Bengaluru has sparked widespread outrage after CCTV footage surfaced showing a man groping a woman in the early hours of April 3. The incident occurred in Bharati Layout, Suddaguntepalya, and has now taken a political turn following a controversial remark by Karnataka’s Home Minister G Parameshwara.

Reacting to the viral video, G Parameshwara said such incidents “tend to happen here and there in a big city like Bengaluru,” a comment that many have slammed as insensitive and dismissive. While the minister emphasized that legal action would follow, his choice of words has triggered criticism from citizens and activists who demand stricter enforcement and better accountability.

The CCTV footage, which spread rapidly on social media last week, shows two women walking in a narrow lane when a man suddenly pushes one of them against a wall and gropes her before fleeing. The two women appear visibly shaken and quickly leave the area. The incident caused widespread condemnation, prompting police to register a suo motu case despite no official complaint from the victim.

The case has been registered under Section 354B of the Indian Penal Code, which deals with assault or use of criminal force with intent to disrobe a woman. Police have launched a manhunt to trace the accused and are also increasing patrolling in the area.

The Home Minister has instructed the city police commissioner to ramp up beat patrolling, especially in vulnerable areas, to prevent such crimes. However, critics argue that casual remarks from top officials dilute the seriousness of the issue and normalize sexual harassment in public spaces.

Bengaluru has seen a worrying rise in crimes against women. According to government data, 2023 recorded 3,260 cases, including 1,135 molestation-related complaints. Last year in August, a similar case was captured on camera in Konanakunte, where a woman was groped during her morning walk. The accused in that case was arrested two days later.