Karnataka: Gang-rape accused hold victory parade after bail, sparks public fury

In a shocking turn of events in Karnataka’s Haveri, seven men who were accused of a gang-rape case in January 2024 were recently granted bail and they celebrated their release with a public procession.

The incident has drawn widespread condemnation after a video of the parade, which featured multiple cars and bikes, went viral on social media. The video, showing the seven accused smiling and flashing victory signs, has sparked outrage.

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2024 gang rape case

The case dates back to January 2024, when the seven accused allegedly dragged a 26-year-old woman from a hotel room in Hanagal, where she was staying with her interfaith partner, into a nearby forest and gang-raped her.

The survivor, who belongs to a minority community and was reportedly in a long-term relationship with a 40-year-old Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) driver, had checked into a private hotel in Hangal on January 8, 2024.

The police had initially filed a complaint of moral policing. A case under charges of gang rape was registered after the survivor gave a detailed statement, initially identifying the suspects during an identification process.

The Haveri Sessions Court recently granted bail to the seven primary accused: Aftab Chandanakatti, Madar Saab Mandakki, Samiwulla Lalanavar, Mohammad Sadiq Agasimani, Shoib Mulla, Tausip Choti, and Riyaz Savikeri.

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Legal loopholes

While the woman initially identified the accused during the preliminary investigation, she reportedly failed to affirm the identities of the accused during court proceedings.

In total, 19 individuals were arrested in connection with the case, including the seven prime accused. Twelve others were allegedly involved either in facilitating the crime or in physically assaulting the survivor.

Twelve of the accused were released on bail nearly ten months ago. The remaining seven, considered the primary suspects, faced repeated bail denials until the recent court order.

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Public outrage

The case had stirred controversy since its inception, with political leaders like former Karnataka CM Basavaraj Bommai hitting out at the Congress-led state government.

Meanwhile, the post-bail roadshow by the accused in Akki Alur has now reignited public anger, with many demanding strict action and questioning the celebratory conduct amid ongoing legal proceedings.