Pramesh S Jain
The Karnataka State Women’s Commission has taken serious note of media reports alleging sexual harassment by a police inspector attached to the Moodbidri Police Station in Dakshina Kannada district and has sought a detailed report from the Mangaluru City Police.
In a letter addressed to the Police Commissioner of Mangaluru,the Commission referred to a report aired by kannada news channel on March 16,which alleged that Sandesh B.G.Circle Inspector of Moodbidri Police Station,had sexually harassed a woman by promising to secure the release of her husband from jail in connection with a case.
According to the allegations,the officer reportedly demanded sexual favours from the woman and also allegedly asked her to pay Rs.25 lakh,threatening that her husband would otherwise be included in the Rowdy-Sheeter list.
The report further claimed that some women were allegedly taken to an IB office and asked to lie on a bed.
Three victims are said to have shared their ordeal with the media.
The media report also alleged that the victims were threatened in the police station parking area and warned that false cases would be filed against them if they did not cooperate.
Taking strong exception to the allegations,the Women’s Commission said the conduct attributed to the officer amounts to serious misconduct and dereliction of duty misuse of power by a government official who is expected to protect women.
The Commission has directed the police authorities to conduct a proper inquiry into the matter as per rules, take disciplinary action against the officer if the allegations are found to be true,and submit a report at the earliest.
A copy of the communication has also been sent to the concerned Assistant Commissioner of Police for necessary action.
