Karnataka’s Minister for Women and Child Development, Lakshmi Hebbalkar, has strongly condemned BJP MLC Ravi Kumar for his alleged disrespectful remarks about Chief Secretary Shalini Rajneesh.
In a scathing response, Hebbalkar stated that BJP leaders in the state have made a habit of demeaning women. She said the way a senior female IAS officer was spoken of reflects the mindset of Ravi Kumar and called it a collective insult to women. She questioned whether BJP’s central leadership would approve of such behaviour from their state-level representatives.
Referring to a previous incident during the Belagavi session, Hebbalkar recalled how BJP leader CT Ravi made objectionable comments about her. She said the silence of party leaders back then indicated silent approval. “This is the kind of regard BJP shows towards women,” she remarked. According to her, such remarks coming from individuals in responsible positions point to a serious lack of mental balance and sensitivity.
Calls for Accountability
Hebbalkar has demanded a public apology from Ravi Kumar. She insisted that he acknowledge his error and apologize to Shalini Rajneesh. If he fails to do so, the Minister warned of possible public demonstrations against him.
She urged political leaders to maintain dignity while speaking, especially when addressing women, and asked them to act with a sense of responsibility in public discourse.