Former Karnataka Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa, a prominent leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), finds himself entangled in controversy after being accused of sexual assault by the mother of a 17-year-old girl. The alleged incident occurred on February 2, 2024, when the mother and daughter visited Yediyurappa seeking assistance regarding another case of sexual assault.
Allegations and Legal Action
According to the First Information Report (FIR), Yediyurappa purportedly assaulted the victim after pulling her into a room. The victim reported the incident to her mother immediately after fleeing the room. Subsequently, Yediyurappa has been booked under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act (POCSO) and section 354 (A) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).
Response and Investigation
As the allegations surfaced, Karnataka’s Home Minister G Parameshwara underscored the gravity of the situation and affirmed that investigations are ongoing. He assured the public of the police’s dedication to ensuring the safety of the aggrieved woman.
Parameshwara stated, “Last night, a complaint was filed against BS Yediyurappa. The police have initiated the necessary procedures. We must await the outcome of the investigation before drawing conclusions. Given the involvement of a former Chief Minister, this matter requires sensitivity.”
Political Implications
Dismissing any political motives behind the accusations, Parameshwara emphasized that the focus remains on uncovering the truth. Yediyurappa, a three-time Chief Minister of Karnataka, held office from 2008 to 2011, briefly in May 2018, and then from July 2019 until 2021.
In 2021, amid speculation, Yediyurappa resigned from his position, citing a loss of public trust in the government. Basavaraj Somappa Bommai succeeded him as the 23rd Chief Minister of Karnataka, serving until May 2023. Bommai, nominated by the BJP, is set to contest the Haveri constituency in the upcoming 2024 Lok Sabha elections.
