A day after his controversial comment on a recent molestation incident in Bengaluru drew sharp criticism, Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara has now expressed regret, claiming that his remarks were misunderstood and distorted by the media and others. Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Parameshwara said his statement was not intended to trivialize the incident and maintained that he is deeply committed to ensuring women’s safety in the state.
The controversy erupted after Parameshwara, while addressing the April 3 molestation case in Suddaguntepalya, said: “In a big city like Bengaluru, incidents like this do take place here and there.” The remark, seen by many as insensitive, triggered a backlash from the opposition BJP and the National Commission for Women (NCW), which demanded a public apology from the minister.
In a strongly-worded statement, the NCW said, “Such statements trivialise crimes against women. We have written to the Hon’ble Governor and Chief Minister demanding urgent action and an apology.”
Parameshwara, defending his track record, said that under his leadership, the Home Department has actively implemented initiatives like the Nirbhaya scheme, and that Karnataka has spent more on the safety of women than many other states. “I am always for women’s protection. If my words have hurt our sisters and mothers, I express regret,” he said.
Dismissing the BJP’s criticism as political opportunism, Parameshwara added, “If they say nothing happened during their rule, people will laugh. I’ve already shared statistics showing otherwise.” He also stressed that strict action is being taken regularly on harassment and POCSO cases across the state, and assured there would be no leniency under his watch.
Reiterating his stance, he stated, “This is not about making statements for effect. I take women’s safety seriously and continue to monitor every case.”
