In a shocking incident that took place in Karnataka’s Haveri, an accused who was arrested in the 2024 Hanagal gang rape case, took out a victory parade in the town after he was released on bail recently.

The incident has drawn widespread condemnation after a video of the parade, which featured multiple cars and bikes, went viral on social media. The sessions court in Haveri recently granted bail to seven primary accused in the case after the survivor reportedly failed to positively identify them.

The accused granted bail include Aptab Chandanakatti, Madar Saab Mandakki, Samiwulla Lalanavar, Mohammad Sadiq Agasimani, Shoib Mulla, Tausip Choti, and Riyaz Savikeri.

The case dates back to January 2024, when a girl alleged that she was gang-raped by seven men. The incident occurred after a group of men entered the room of a lodge in Karnataka’s Hangal and allegedly thrashed a couple for the ‘crime’ of being together despite practising different faiths. The woman later alleged gang rape by the men.

“The victim’s statement has been recorded under 164 of the CrPC after producing her before the magistrate," Haveri Superintendent of Police, Anshu Kumar had then said.

The incident had also sparked a massive controversy in the state with former Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai hitting out at the Congress-led state government.

Meanwhile, the post-bail roadshow by the accused in Akki Alur has now reignited public anger, with many demanding strict action and questioning the celebratory conduct amid ongoing legal proceedings.

All seven accused are from Akki Alur in Haveri district. The police had initially filed a complaint of moral policing. The gang rape charges were added later on the statement of the victim, who alleged that she was dragged to a forested area near Nalkuru Cross and sexually assaulted by seven individuals.

Source: News18