Bengaluru: Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara has clarified his recent comments on the molestation incident in Bengaluru, stating that his remarks were misunderstood and distorted. He also expressed regret if his statement caused any distress, particularly to women.

The controversy erupted after Parameshwara's response to the molestation case, which occurred on April 3 in Suddaguntepalya.

The Home Minister had remarked that incidents like this were bound to happen in a large city like Bengaluru, where police work tirelessly, despite adverse conditions like rain and cold. His comments were met with strong criticism from opposition parties and prompted the National Commission for Women (NCW) to call for a public apology.

Minister's clarification

In response to the backlash, Parameshwara on Tuesday explained that his statement had been taken out of context. "Yesterday, my statement was not properly understood by the media, and other platforms too have interpreted it differently. I am always for the protection of women," he said, adding that as Home Minister, he had implemented various schemes for women's safety, including the Nirbhaya Fund, which Karnataka had utilised more effectively than other states.

He further emphasised his commitment to women’s protection, pointing to the programmes he had introduced and the strict measures he had put in place to ensure the safety of women. "I am not saying this in response to political opposition, but if my statement has caused pain to anyone—our sisters and mothers—I express my regret. However, it is not right to distort my words and present them in a different light," Parameshwara added.

The NCW had condemned his remarks, stating that they trivialised crimes against women and called on the Karnataka government for a public apology and immediate action to strengthen law and order.

Addressing the criticism, Parameshwara reiterated his commitment to women’s safety, asserting that he personally reviews safety concerns and regularly instructs the police to take strict action in cases involving harassment and child protection. He dismissed allegations of negligence or indifference, stressing that he had always prioritised women’s safety during his tenure.

On the subject of rising crimes against women in Karnataka, Parameshwara responded to claims from the BJP, questioning whether the opposition would prefer to compare statistics from their own time in power. He asserted that the data he had provided on the issue spoke for itself, adding that people would "laugh" at any claims suggesting that nothing had happened during the BJP’s rule.

The Home Minister concluded by reaffirming his dedication to taking all necessary actions for the protection of women in Karnataka.