Belagavi: Following a gangrape incident in Bengaluru, where a 37-year-old woman accused two men of assaulting her and stealing her phone and money, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Tuesday questioned BJP's stance on rape cases.
"Were there no rapes during the BJP tenure? Rape should never happen, and women must be protected. However, society always has bad elements. We will take strong action against them," Siddaramaiah told reporters here.
BJP leaders have sharply criticised the state's law and order situation, with state party chief Vijayendra Yediyurappa condemning the incident.
"Karnataka, once renowned for its culture, values, and safety, is now increasingly gaining notoriety as a hotspot for dacoity and atrocities. The recent gang-rape and robbery of a lone woman waiting for a bus near K.R. Market in Bengaluru is a heinous and inhumane act that underscores the state’s worsening law and order situation. It reflects a failure to protect women," Vijayendra said.
He continued, stating that the increasing number of murders, robberies, crimes against women, and rapes has left civil society in despair, emphasising the anarchic state of affairs.
The Karnataka BJP President further warned that if such incidents persist, the people would inevitably rise up and hold the government accountable. Vijayendra affirmed that the BJP in Karnataka remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of the state's citizens.
Meanwhile RDPR Minister Priyank Kharge, reiterated the government’s commitment to women’s safety. “Bengaluru is considered one of the safest cities for working women, according to a recent survey. We will ensure justice is served in this case and address any lapses in the process," he said.
BJP MLA Ashwath Narayan also weighed in, stating, "What justification is being offered for rapes? Dacoity and loot are rampant in the state, with no fear of consequences. There is no law and order."
The police have registered a First Information Report (FIR) and arrested the two accused men. During the investigation, it was revealed that the woman had initially agreed to engage in sex with the men for money.
However, the situation escalated into an argument over payment. Despite this, the police have proceeded with filing charges of rape against the accused.
Further developments are awaited as authorities continue their investigation.
