In a horrifying incident that underscores the deteriorating law and order situation in Karnataka, a woman waiting for a bus at Bengaluru’s K.R. Market was gang-raped and robbed late Sunday night. As per Daijiworld, the area, located near Vidhana Soudha—the seat of power—has once again highlighted the gross failure of the Congress-led government in ensuring women’s safety.
The victim, who had approached two individuals for help in finding her bus stop, was instead lured to a secluded spot on Godown Street. There, she was sexually assaulted and robbed of her jewellery, cash, and mobile phone. The incident occurred in a busy locality known for its 24/7 activity, making the crime even more appalling.
Reacting strongly to the incident, women’s rights activist Manjula held the government accountable for its complete failure to protect women. “This heinous act occurring in a bustling area like K.R. Market proves that the government has entirely neglected women’s safety. Bengaluru, an international hub, cannot afford such crimes that tarnish its reputation globally,” she stated. Manjula specifically criticized Home Minister Dr. G. Parameshwar and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah for their incompetence. “The Congress government is busy promoting ‘Brand Bengaluru,’ but is this the brand they envision—a city where women are unsafe and crime thrives unchecked?” She questioned.
She further alleged that the government’s negligence extended to operational inefficiencies in policing, citing restrictions on fuel allocations for Hoysala patrol vehicles to a mere 100 litres. “This limitation has directly reduced the frequency of police patrols, making Bengaluru streets more dangerous for women,” she remarked.
Manjula also accused local MLA and Minister for Waqf and Housing, Zameer Ahmad Khan, of perpetuating a climate of fear in his constituency, claiming his oppressive tactics and alleged encouragement of criminal activities have worsened the law and order situation.
The activist noted that police officers often dismiss or neglect women’s complaints, adding to their trauma. Despite repeated incidents of sexual assault and other crimes, the government has failed to act decisively, she alleged. “The Chief Minister, Deputy Chief Minister, and Home Minister are more concerned with safeguarding their political positions than protecting women in this state,” Manjula said, accusing them of prioritizing dirty power struggles over governance.
BJP criticizes Siddaramaiah’s deflection
State BJP President B.Y. Vijayendra did not hold back, condemning the Congress government for its inability to maintain law and order. “Karnataka has become a haven for robbers and rapists under this administration. This government has completely abandoned its responsibility towards citizens,” he said.
He called the incident a reflection of the Congress government’s misplaced priorities, adding that the safety of women should be the foundation of governance, not an afterthought.
Siddaramaiah’s controversial response
In response to the BJP’s sharp criticism, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah attempted to deflect blame, questioning whether rape incidents did not occur during the BJP’s tenure. Speaking in Belagavi, he said, “Were there no incidents of rape during the BJP’s rule? Such incidents should not happen, and strict action will be taken against anti-social elements.”
The remark has sparked outrage, with many accusing the chief minister of trivializing the issue and failing to address the root cause of the problem.
Armed heist at Kotekar bank
In a shocking incident near Mangaluru, the Kotekar Agricultural Cooperative Bank was targeted by armed robbers, leaving the region in a state of panic. The heist occurred during regular banking hours, with the culprits reportedly holding staff and customers hostage before fleeing with cash and valuables. Initial investigations suggest that the robbers were well-prepared and had knowledge of the bank’s operations, which raises concerns about insider involvement. The incident has left local residents shaken, with many questioning the efficacy of the existing security measures at financial institutions in the state.
ATM van heist in Bidar
On the same day, in a daring attack in Bidar district, two armed assailants ambushed an ATM cash replenishment van outside the State Bank of India’s main branch in the city. As per News Karnataka, the robbers shot and killed the security guard and injured a staff member before fleeing with approximately ₹93 lakh in cash. Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic, with the assailants making a quick escape on a motorcycle. The crime, executed in broad daylight in a bustling area, highlights the lack of robust security protocols for cash transportation in Karnataka. This incident has further amplified concerns over the state’s ability to curb organized crime effectively.
BJP leader slams Congress-led government over law and order failures
State BJP President B.Y. Vijayendra has raised concerns over the growing loss of public trust in the police force amid a surge in robberies and heists across Karnataka.
As per reports, addressing the media in Bengaluru yesterday, Vijayendra criticized the Congress-led state government, alleging that the increasing frequency of robberies, dacoities, and other serious crimes highlights its failure to uphold law and order.
Vijayendra criticized Home Minister Dr. G. Parameshwar for making superficial claims about the State’s law and order being under control, asserting that the surge in crimes has left citizens feeling increasingly insecure. He also accused the Congress government of being lenient towards those involved in attacks on cows, a stance he alleged reflects an anti-Hindu bias.
“The home minister needs to acknowledge the reality and implement strict measures to restore law and order, which has significantly deteriorated in recent months. The government’s apparent leniency towards individuals targeting cows, sacred to Hindus, has often fueled communal tensions,” he remarked.
Citing the recent assault on workers at a brick kiln in Vijayapura as a deeply troubling incident, Vijayendra called for decisive action. “The escalating crime rate is a major concern for the public. The government must adopt stringent measures to create a sense of fear among wrongdoers. Only then can effective law and order be maintained,” he added.
Despite the alarming rise in crimes across Karnataka, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah continues to make dismissive and controversial statements instead of addressing the core issues. His response to the horrific gang-rape incident in Bengaluru has drawn sharp criticism from all quarters. His attempt to deflect blame by questioning whether similar incidents did not occur during the BJP’s tenure has been labeled as insensitive and irresponsible. Such remarks not only trivialize the gravity of the crime but also reflect a lack of accountability from the state’s leadership.
Despite being questioned by the media, Siddaramaiah appeared dismissive and failed to convey any seriousness about addressing the deteriorating safety of women in Karnataka. Critics argue that such blunders in public statements undermine public trust and showcase a lack of empathy for victims. Citizens and opposition leaders have demanded an explanation, questioning how a chief minister can exhibit such irresponsibility in a matter as grave as women’s safety.
