Members of the forum and women activists such as Vidya Dinker, Gulabi Bilimale, M Shahnaz, Sabiha Bhoomigowda, Suresh Bhat Bakrabail, Marlene Martis of DEEDS, Harini of Sanchalana and others participated in the protest, which was part of a series of protests that were held across the state in Bangalore, Mangalore, Mysore and other districts.
Speaking on the occasion, Marlene Martis said that men in power continued to harass and commit crimes against women and enjoyed impunity because of their status and stature. It is important that the power and privilege enjoyed by the accused in present case is not used to protect himself and vilify the victim. Therefore, to prevent the investigation and legal process to be subverted and influenced, this case should be brought under the supervision of the High Court of Karnataka. The case should be transferred from the local sessions court to a fast-track court in Bangalore. The accused MLA must step down from his seat until the case is decided by the courts, and should not be allowed to attend the Assembly, she said, adding that similar protests were held by like-minded groups in Bangalore, Mysore, Chikmagalur and other districts in the state.
Suresh Bhat Bakrabail of Karnataka Komu Souharda Vedike, M Shahanaz of Anupama magazine and Lydia Lobo of LINK De-Addiction Centre also addressed the gathering.
The protestors also demanded that protection should be provide to the complainant and her family against any attacks or pressure from the MLA and his family or supporters.
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