BENGALURU: Karnataka legislative council chairman Basavaraj Horatti Monday rejected claims of a recording capturing the heated exchange between women and child development minister Laxmi Hebbalkar and BJP MLC CT Ravi on Dec 19, during which the latter allegedly used an obscene remark against her.
"There is no evidence as nothing gets recorded after the adjournment of the House. No one else can provide a video since phones and private cameras are not allowed inside," Horatti said. He clarified that the verbal spat occurred post adjournment, falling outside his jurisdiction.
Hebbalkar accused Ravi of using derogatory language during the confrontation, leading to protests and counter-protests. Ravi was arrested the same day at Suvarna Vidhana Soudha premises in Belagavi but was later released after the high court deemed his arrest illegal due to procedural lapses. Horatti called the matter a "closed chapter" as no complaints were filed by either side.
Minister denies cops worked under political pressureWe have not received complaints from both parties. The incident is unrelated to the council,” Horatti said, adding police acted based on Hebbalkar’s complaint.
Hebbalkar, however, has vowed to pursue the case. “There is no question of forgiving Ravi at any cost. I will fight legally and seek justice from PM Modi and write to President Droupadi Murmu. If I get an opportunity, I will meet the PM to highlight the injustice,” she declared. She also expressed dismay over senior BJP functionaries supporting Ravi.
“I feel pity for state BJP president BY Vijayendra, R Ashoka, Basangouda Patil Yatnal, Aravind Bellad and others for backing someone who made a woman feel disgusted,” she said.
She further reaffirmed her determination: “This Laxmi Hebbalkar won’t rest until Ravi is punished for insulting women with de rogatory words.”
Home minister G Parameshwara clarified that police are ready to send any video evidence for forensic examination if requested by Horatti. He denied allegations of police acting under ministerial influence, stating, “Police do not require government direction for every step.”
AICC general secretary Randeep Singh Surjewala sought strict action against Ravi, while Union minister HD Kumaraswamy warned officials of repercussions who “mishandled” the case. “If BJP legislators pursue legal action, officers involved in Ravi’s arrest could face suspension,” Kumaraswamy said.
Industries minister MB Patil questioned BJP’s stance on the matter. “No woman makes such allegations out of imagination. They lecture about culture: Is this their culture?” he asked.
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