Bengaluru:
A remark made by Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara in response to a recent molestation case has stirred controversy and sparked public outrage. When asked about the incident, the minister reportedly said, “Such things happen in big cities,” a statement widely perceived as dismissive and insensitive to the growing concerns around women’s safety.
The incident in question involved a young woman being harassed by a group of men in a busy area of Bengaluru, an event that was caught on CCTV and widely shared on social media. The footage triggered concern across the state and led to demands for swift police action and stronger safety measures for women.
However, instead of addressing the specific steps being taken to prevent such crimes, the home minister’s response came across as an attempt to normalize or trivialize such incidents, critics say.
Opposition parties including the BJP and JD(S) slammed the statement, calling it “irresponsible” and “unbecoming of someone in charge of law and order.” BJP spokespersons demanded a formal apology and called on the chief minister to clarify the government’s stance on women’s safety.
Activists and women’s rights groups have also condemned the comment. “This kind of language from a top official sends the wrong message—not only to victims but also to perpetrators,” said Meera Nair, a Bengaluru-based gender rights advocate. “Crimes against women must never be normalized, especially by those in power.”
Facing backlash, the minister later clarified that his comment was misinterpreted and that the government is committed to ensuring justice for victims and improving safety in urban areas. He added that police have identified suspects and launched an investigation.
Despite the clarification, public anger continues to grow, with citizens demanding better street surveillance, faster trials, and more responsive policing in Karnataka.
The incident has reignited discussions around the urgent need for accountability and sensitive leadership when it comes to women’s safety in India’s metropolitan areas.
