Women’s commission seeks report into sexual harassment allegation against police inspector

The Karnataka State Commission for Women has taken serious note of media reports alleging sexual harassment by a police inspector attached to the Moodbidri Police Station in Dakshina Kannada district and has sought a detailed report from the Mangaluru City Police.

In a letter addressed to the Police Commissioner of Mangaluru, the commission referred to a report aired by kannada news channel on Monday, which alleged that Sandesh B.G., circle inspector of the Moodbidri Police Station, had sexually harassed a woman by promising to secure the release of her husband from jail in connection with a case.

The allegations stated that the officer reportedly demanded sexual favours from the woman and also allegedly asked her to pay ₹25 lakh, threatening that her husband would otherwise be included in the rowdy-sheeter list. He was also accused of abusing other women as well. Three victims were said to have shared their ordeal with the media.

The media report also alleged that the victims were threatened in the police station and warned that false cases would be filed against them if they did not cooperate.

Taking strong exception to the allegations, the commission said the officer’s conduct amounts to serious misconduct, dereliction of duty and misuse of power by a government official who is expected to protect women.

The commission has directed the police authorities to conduct a proper inquiry into the matter as per rules, take disciplinary action against the officer if the allegations are found to be true, and submit a report at the earliest.