Home Minister G. Parameshwara on Monday blamed a series of alleged attacks on women by unruly mobs during New Year celebrations on M.G. Road and Brigade Road on ‘the Western wear of youth’. This drew angry reactions from women who termed the statement ‘insensitive’.
In an interview to a private news channel, Mr. Parameshwara said, “Youngsters are almost like Westerners. They try to copy not only the Western mindset, but also the dressing. So there was some disturbance, some girls were harassed. You know these kinds of things do happen.”
During the celebrations over the weekend, women were allegedly molested, pawed at and verbally abused despite heavy police presence.
Ruchita (name changed), a 23-year-old, said that the experience was horrifying. “I went to M.G. Road around 1 a.m after a party with five friends. We were trying to book a cab to get back home. Drunk men tried to fall on us, some passed lewd remarks and a few tried to get physical with my friends,” she alleged.
The Karnataka State Commission for Women has sought a report on the action taken by the police.
No complaint has been filed so far. “If we get a complaint, we will take immediate action. We are checking CCTV footage from over 15 cameras on the two roads,” said Praveen Sood, Police Commissioner.
Later in the day, the Home Minister clarified that the police will take up suo motu action and investigate the allegations. “When there is such a big crowd, it is not possible for the police to keep vigilance.”
S. Vimala of All India Democratic Women's Association (AIDWA) said, “Instead of blaming women, authorities should send strong message that this can never be tolerated. Let society start learning to recognise our space.”
