POCSO Case Against Former Karnataka CM Yediyurappa: Sagira’s Mother Seeks Justice

A First Information Report (FIR) has been lodged against BS Yediyurappa, the former Chief Minister of Karnataka and a senior leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. The FIR pertains to allegations of sexual harassment filed against the former CM. 

The incident is reported to have taken place in Bengaluru on February 2nd, as stated in the complaint lodged at the Sadashivanagar Police Station. Based on the complaint filed by a 17-year-old victim, BS Yediyurappa is facing charges under POCSO and section 354 (A).

Yediyurappa has refuted all the allegations against him, stating that they are baseless. However, he has not attributed any political motives behind the accusations.

Allegations: Victim Sought Help, Yediyurappa Allegedly Coerced

According to the FIR, the victim, a minor, sought help on February 2nd, alleging sexual harassment by Yediyurappa. The victim had previously sought assistance in another case involving a different community. Subsequently, Yediyurappa allegedly coerced the victim into a room and sexually assaulted her. Upon leaving the room, the victim informed her mother about the alleged assault.

The victim’s mother filed a complaint against Yediyurappa, prompting the registration of the case. Following this, Yediyurappa’s office has released several documents. It is noteworthy that the woman who filed the FIR has reportedly filed 53 cases against various individuals until now.

State Congress Government States: Cases are Sensitive

In response to the ongoing case involving a complaint filed against the former Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa, Karnataka’s Home Minister, G. Parameshwara, has emphasized the sensitivity of the matter. He stated that a woman has lodged a complaint at the Sadashivanagar Police Station alleging coercion against her daughter. 

Consequently, the police have registered the case and initiated an investigation. Parameshwara stressed that until the truth is revealed, no definitive statements can be made. He highlighted the sensitive nature of such cases, especially when they involve a former Chief Minister.

Parameshwara further clarified that he does not believe any political angle is involved in the matter. He asserted that they do not recognize the woman and thus, she went to the police to file her complaint, which the police duly registered.

BS Yediyurappa’s Stint as Karnataka’s 19th Chief Minister

BS Yediyurappa has held the position of the 19th Chief Minister of Karnataka. His tenure began with a seven-day stint in 2007. Subsequently, he served as Chief Minister from 2008 to 2011, then again for three days in May 2018, and later from July 2019 to July 2021. 

Amidst political turmoil and uncertainty, he tendered his resignation in 2021. During his resignation speech, Yediyurappa expressed regret, acknowledging the loss of trust among the people of Karnataka towards his government.