Udupi: A case has been registered against BJP leader Naveen Chandra Shetty Rattadi, who is also the president of the management committee of Rattadi Shriratteshwara Temple, on charges of sexually harassing a woman associated with the Dharmasthala Self-Help Group (SHG). The complaint was lodged at the Amasebailu Police Station.
Allegations in the complaint
According to police, the complainant is a 29-year-old woman service representative from Rattadi village. On September 2, she had called Shetty regarding the invitation for a preparatory meeting of the Dharmasthala Dharma Rakshana Yatra, scheduled for September 5.
Shetty allegedly asked her to come to his residence at Manimakki around noon. When the woman delivered the invitation, Shetty allegedly touched her hand while receiving it. The complaint further states that he forced her to sit beside him, pulled her close, and kissed her on the cheek. Shocked by the act, the woman attempted to leave, but Shetty reportedly followed her and asked her to return.
CPM condemns incident
The Udupi district committee of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) condemned the incident, accusing the BJP leader of bringing disgrace while claiming to work for the cause of religious protection.
The party also alleged that Kundapura MLA Kiran Kumar Kodgi was attempting to shield Shetty and pressurise authorities to close the case. “Since the survivor herself has come forward to file the complaint, police must immediately arrest the accused and ensure justice,” said CPM district secretary Suresh Kallagar.
Police action
Officials confirmed that a case has been registered and that the matter is under investigation. However, no arrest had been reported as of Saturday. Police sources said further steps would be taken based on the evidence collected during the inquiry.
Conclusion
The case has sparked political tension in Udupi, with opposition leaders demanding swift action and accountability. Police have assured that investigations will be conducted fairly and without external pressure.