Hubballi: Serious allegations have surfaced that police stripped and assaulted a BJP woman worker during her arrest in Hubballi, Karnataka. The incident has sparked a major political controversy, with the BJP expressing strong outrage. However, the police have completely denied these allegations.
Background of the Incident
The incident occurred in the Keshwapur area under the Hubballi-Dharwad Municipal Corporation during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the voters' list. Supporters of Congress corporator Suvarna Kallakuntla had objected, alleging that BJP workers were present alongside Booth Level Officers (BLOs).
Cross-complaints were filed over the dispute. On January 5, Keshwapur police arrived to arrest BJP woman worker Sujata alias Vijayalakshmi Handi. The BJP alleges that her clothes were torn and she was assaulted during the arrest. A video recorded by the victim's family members has gone viral on social media.
BJP's Allegations
- BJP state president B.Y. Vijayendra, Leader of Opposition R. Ashok, former minister C.T. Ravi, and several other leaders have condemned the incident as "inhuman" and the "height of atrocities against women."
- They accused the Congress government of deteriorating law and order, demanding suspension of the guilty police officers and action against the corporator.
- Portraying Sujata as a Dalit woman, the BJP has framed the incident as caste-related.
Police Statement
Hubballi-Dharwad Police Commissioner N. Shashikumar has rejected the allegations:
- Sujata Handi was fully clothed when she was taken into custody.
- After being put inside the police vehicle, she allegedly removed her clothes herself to resist arrest and assaulted the police (including biting a woman constable).
- The commissioner stated that there are already 9 cases registered against her.
- Police claim they treated her with respect and dignity.
Current Status
- Sujata Handi has been remanded to judicial custody.
- A counter-complaint has been filed against Congress corporator Suvarna Kallakuntla and 9 others (including serious charges like attempt to murder).
- Further investigation is underway. Videos and evidence are being examined.
The incident has become politically heated, with both parties trading accusations. The full truth will only emerge after the completion of the investigation.
