Woman Tied To A Tree, Repeatedly Slapped In Karnataka For Alleged Fish Theft, CM Condemns Incident
The viral video drew the attention of Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, who has asked the authorities to take strict action against those involved.
Four people have been arrested for allegedly tying a woman to a tree and assaulting her in public after she was accused of stealing fish. The incident came to light on Wednesday, March 19, after a video of the assault went viral on social media.
According to reports, the incident occurred on March 18 at a fishing port in Udupi’s Malpe. The videos circulating on social media show the woman being tied to a tree while a man can be seen repeatedly slapping her in front of the crowd as he confronts her.
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Despite the public humiliation, no one intervened to stop it, reported news agency PTI, citing its police sources.
CM Siddaramaiah Reacts, Calls For Strict Action
The viral video soon drew the attention of Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, who has asked for strict action to be taken, and condemned taking law onto one’s hands. He further expressed shock over the incident and termed it “inhumane".
Condemning the incident, CM Siddaramaiah took to X and wrote, “Whatever the reason, tying a woman’s hands and feet in this way and assaulting her is not only inhumane, but also a serious crime. Such barbaric behavior is unbecoming of a civilised state like Karnataka. We have a police department and a legal system to take action against those involved in theft, cheating, and fraud."
He warned that the government will not tolerate the public taking the law into their own hands when the police are competent to investigate and punish under the law if a complaint is filed.
“I have instructed the police to conduct a proper investigation into this incident and take necessary action," he added.
Police Action Initiated, FIR Filed
Udupi Superintendent of Police Arun K informed that the victim who was allegedly assaulted has been identified as Laxmi Bai, a resident of Vijayanagara district. She was accused by locals of stealing fish.
Three others were arrested in connection with the incident, police informed. Meanwhile, an investigation in connection to the case has been initiated and the police are analysing the videos to identify and arrest others involved.
Udupi Deputy Commissioner Vidya Kumari K said that an FIR has been registered. She further condemned the assault, stating that such acts are unacceptable both legally and morally.
“Whether or not the woman committed any wrongdoing is under investigation, but assaulting someone publicly is inhuman. It is even more disturbing that bystanders laughed and failed to intervene," she remarked.
The SP has been directed to take strict action against the accused, and the authorities have assured that such incidents will not be tolerated.
(With agency inputs)
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