Karnataka Congress senior leader and ex-MLA, Amaregouda Patil Bayyapur, finds himself at the epicenter of controversy. An alleged audio clip of the politician questioning the possibility of a single person committing rape has sent shockwaves across social media platforms. This disturbing incident unfolded following a woman's police complaint against his associate, Sanganagouda, accusing him of rape. The incident sheds light on the alarming trend of political leaders resorting to victim-blaming and making brazen comments in response to cries for justice.
The complaint, filed at the Koppal Women’s Police station on October 10, has not resulted in any action against the accused, Sanganagouda, raising questions about the efficacy of the justice system. The victim's father-in-law, seeking justice, approached Amaregouda Patil Bayyapur, only to face scrutiny and questioning of his motives. This highlights a concerning lack of empathy and support for survivors within the political sphere.
The Shocking Remark
In the viral audio, Amaregouda is heard dismissing the possibility of a single person committing rape, allegedly stating, "If you say it is rape, do you understand how much ostracisation your family will face? You will just lose your dignity and nothing will happen. If a rape has to happen, there has to be 3-4 persons. A single man cannot rape a woman. It is not possible even from the God Brahma. It is not right to make such allegations. What will happen? At best, he will be sent to jail."
These words not only display a shocking lack of sensitivity but also a disturbing inclination to protect the accused at the expense of the survivor.
He reportedly went on to make further controversial remarks, stating, "How can he rape? She must have screamed. One cannot clap with one hand. It needs two hands. You bring a healthy man, and I will send a woman, ask him to rape her, let’s see."
Bayyapur's reportedly comments, suggesting that the victim could have saved herself by screaming, and his analogy of clapping with two hands not only question the credibility of the victim's testimony but also trivialise the gravity of the crime. Such remarks expose a profound lack of understanding of sexual assault, contributing to a culture that normalises blame-shifting onto the survivor.
He further allegedly perpetuates harmful stereotypes by claiming that a single man cannot commit rape and suggesting an appalling "experiment" to prove his point. His insensitive remarks further imply a dismissive attitude towards the severity of sexual assault cases.
Victim-Blaming Mentality
Amaregouda's alleged response not only perpetuates harmful stereotypes but also reflects a broader issue of victim-blaming within political circles. The emphasis on the potential ostracisation of the victim's family, if the news goes public, serves as a grim reminder of the consequences faced by those brave enough to speak out against sexual assault.
Bayyapur's alleged flippant remark about the consequences, stating, "At best, he will be sent to jail," trivialises the gravity of a heinous crime like rape. This callous attitude from a political leader sends a disconcerting message about the urgency of reevaluating how such crimes are perceived and handled at the highest levels of governance.
Social Media Backlash
Unsurprisingly, Amaregouda's comments have ignited a storm of criticism on social media platforms. Users have expressed their outrage, condemning the leader's lack of sensitivity and understanding. Calls for accountability and justice echo through online discussions, emphasising the need for political leaders to be held responsible for their words and actions.
Despite the mounting criticism, Amaregouda Patil Bayyapur has chosen to remain silent on the controversy.
Views expressed by the author are their own
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