The abduction of a Malayalam actor in a moving car in Kochi has sparked outrage among the film fraternity and the public after she filed a case of rape against her abductors. Friday night’s shocking incident has also triggered political sparring in Kerala with the ruling CPI(M) coming under attack for its response to the safety of women in the state.
Here are some political reactions from Kerala’s leaders on the incident.
Binoy Viswam, CPI leader and former minister
The abduction and rape attempt shows the male chauvinist attitude of society which is promoted by the BJP. I view it as an attack on the dignity of women which is happening in different parts of the country, born out of the attitude that women should be treated as second grade citizens only. The BJP, on its part, has been propagating an anti-women attitude. It's horrific that it's growing instead of reducing. It's the duty of the government to ensure safety of women at public places. I think the investigation in the case is going on in the right direction.
K Muraleedharan, Congress MLA
It needs immediate attention to prevent such incidents in the future. It's unbelievable that it happened at one of the busiest roads in the state which in turn poses serious questions about the law and order situation. The conspiracy behind it should be thoroughly probed and stern action should be taken against the culprits. How can an ordinary woman travel alone in the state when an actor was abused in a busy road?
Bindu Krishna, Kollam District Congress Committee President
90% of the rape cases in the country end in acquittal and this encourages criminals. In this case the lethargy of the police in taking quick action on the complaint helped the culprits to flee the place, only later did the cops act with prudence. But more shocking was the response of CPM state secretary, who called it an isolated incident. Action should be taken against the accused without looking into to the morality of the complainant in such cases. The initial response of the Chief Minister, who said a probe will look into any animosity between the accused and the actor, was also unfortunate. Laws to ensure women safety should be strictly implemented. Action should also be taken against Karilai TV for revealing the actor's identity.
P K Krishnadas, BJP leader
Safety of women has been neglected in the state. The incident reveals the unholy nexus between the police and the underworld. The statement of the CPM state secretary that it was an isolated incident was irresponsible. Through this he tried to simplify the crime. It must be because he has forgotten the murders of Jisha and Soumya. The statement also aimed at misleading the probe. The CPM is trying to protect somebody; the party is afraid of something.