NEW DELHI: Karnataka BJP MLC CT Ravi was detained on Thursday after an FIR was lodged against him for allegedly using derogatory language towards the state’s women and child development minister Laxmi Hebbalkar in the Legislative Council. However, the BJP MLC refuted the allegations and called them “false.”
Authorities registered a case against the BJP leader under sections 75 and 79 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, following the Minister’s complaint, according to a senior police official.
Congress alleges CT Ravi of using derogatory terms against Hebbalkar
Congress leaders stated that during a heated exchange following the House adjournment by Chairman Basavaraj Horatti amid chaos over Union home minister Amit Shah’s comments about B R Ambedkar, Ravi allegedly repeatedly used inappropriate language towards Hebbalkar.
Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah alleged that CT Ravi had used obscene language against Hebbalkar. He also said that the state minister was hurt by his words and thus filed a complaint against him.
“A member of the Legislative Council @CTRavi_BJP used obscene language towards a minister @laxmi_hebbalkar, which is a criminal offence. Lakshmi Hebbalkar has complained to the Speaker and the police in this regard. Let’s see what legal action will be taken. Our parishad members who were around there are saying that C.T. Ravi has abused her more than ten times with very derogatory words. Lakshmi Hebbalkar, who was hurt by Ravi’s words, has filed a complaint. Since this is a case of sexual assault, the police will take action as per criminal procedure,” the Karnataka CM said in a post on X.
Meanwhile, deputy chief minister DK Shivakumar said, “BJP talks about culture, Sanskriti and dharma, but what happened today is shameful. It’s absolutely disgusting for BJP to have such leaders who make such comments on women. Whatever needs to be done, will be done. I will not be making anymore comments on this issue.”
What CT Ravi said in his defence?
When questioned about the accusations, Ravi stated, “Her allegations are false, let the audio and videos get verified, I will speak after that. I won’t say anything now….. I’m not someone who will abuse someone personally. I have not abused her, I don’t know why she felt that way.”
“I have not said anything to her….I have not made any personal comments against her, that she is claiming,” he further stated.
Police dispersed Hebbalkar’s supporters who had gathered at the Suvarna Vidhana Soudha premises to protest against Ravi.