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Kannada actor Shivarajkumar has come out in support of actor and former Member of Parliament (MP) Ramya, who has been facing a barrage of online abuse — including rape and death threats — over her remarks on the Renukaswamy murder case.
“The words used against Ramya are reprehensible. It is not right to speak like that against any woman; we should not tolerate it,” Shivarajkumar said in a statement. “It is very important to respect women as mothers, sisters, daughters, wives, and first and foremost as individuals.”
Condemning the use of social media to incite abuse, Shivarajkumar said, “Social media is a very powerful weapon, and it should be used for one's own advancement, not to abuse others with abusive language and sow hatred and jealousy.” Extending his support to Ramya, he added, “Your stance is right, Ramya. We will always stand with you.”
His remarks came days after Ramya welcomed the Supreme Court’s strong observations against the Karnataka High Court’s order granting bail to actor Darshan Thoogudeepa and six others accused in the murder of Renukaswamy. The apex court had criticised the High Court’s order as one that “basically dictated an acquittal.”
Following her post on Instagram that read, “SC is a ray of hope for the common people of India – justice for the family of Renukaswamy,” Ramya was subjected to widespread trolling and threats on her social media accounts. In response, she posted, “To all the DBoss fans — Welcome to my Instagram :) Your comments are proof why Renukaswamy’s family needs justice!”
The Karnataka State Commission for Women on June 28 directed the police to take action against those harassing the actor. Ramya has stated that she intends to meet the Bengaluru Police Commissioner to file a formal complaint against the abuse and threats. This is not the first time she has faced online bullying from Darshan’s supporters. After Darshan’s arrest earlier this year, Ramya had posted that “No one is above the law,” a remark that also drew backlash from the actor’s fanbase.