Thu Dec 19 18:55:28 UTC 2024: ## BJP MLC Arrested for Allegedly Insulting Minister in Karnataka Assembly

**Bengaluru, Karnataka –** Chaos erupted in the Karnataka Legislative Council Thursday after BJP MLC C.T. Ravi was arrested for allegedly making derogatory and sexually harassing remarks against Women and Child Welfare Minister Laxmi Hebbalkar. The arrest followed a complaint filed by Hebbalkar, who accused Ravi of using highly objectionable language on the floor of the House.

Police registered a case against Ravi under sections 75 and 79 of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS) for sexual harassment. He was taken into custody while participating in a protest with fellow BJP members at the Suvarna Vidhana Soudha.

The incident sparked widespread protests. BJP MLAs and MLCs condemned Ravi’s arrest, with Leader of the Opposition R. Ashoka calling it “goondagiri” (hooliganism) by the Congress. Ashoka claimed there was no evidence to support Hebbalkar’s allegations, a claim seemingly contradicted by statements from Law Minister H.K. Patil who confirmed the use of obscene language. Meanwhile, Congress workers attempted to storm Ravi’s residence in Chikkamagaluru, leading to further unrest in Bengaluru, Belagavi, and other parts of the state.

Council Chairperson Basavaraj Horatti intervened, stating he had spoken to both Hebbalkar and Ravi, declaring the matter closed and emphasizing his responsibility for maintaining order in the House. However, the incident also led to debate in the Legislative Assembly, with Congress MLA Sharat Bache Gowda raising the issue and the Leader of the Opposition objecting to its discussion.

The incident unfolded during a heated debate where Ravi also allegedly referred to Congress MP Rahul Gandhi as a drug addict. The conflicting accounts and ensuing protests highlight the deep political divisions in Karnataka.

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