Karnataka BJP Womens Wing Demands Resignation of MP Accused of Sexual Harassment

Bengaluru, October 12 (Daily Kiran) : The Karnataka unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) women’s wing staged a protest on Monday, calling for the resignation of MP Prof. Angomcha Bimol Akoijam. He faces allegations of sexual harassment against female students.

Protesters accused the Congress party of supporting Akoijam despite him being suspended by a committee at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU). They chanted slogans against Congress’s national leadership, claiming the party is shielding the accused. “The Congress is promoting an MP accused of sexual harassment,” they stated.

Demonstrators also directed their ire at prominent Congress figures, including Rahul Gandhi, Sonia Gandhi, and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, accusing them of failing to stand with victims of sexual abuse. During the protest at the Congress office, BJP women’s wing members attempted to force their way inside and were subsequently detained and taken to an undisclosed location. Congress activists criticized the Karnataka Congress government for not ensuring adequate representation of women in the cabinet.

Speaking to the media outside the Congress office, BJP MLC Bharti Shetty alleged that Akoijam was claiming innocence, asserting that the accusations against him had not been substantiated. However, she contended that his removal was warranted as the allegations had been proven. She emphasized that the BJP condemns the actions of the MP.

Shetty reiterated the BJP women’s wing’s call for significant protests against Akoijam’s behavior and questioned Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi’s support for him. “Where are you, Priyanka Gandhi, when such individuals are being supported?” she asked.

Accusing Congress of backing Akoijam, Shetty remarked that the party has failed to uphold its principles in its actions and statements since India’s independence. She reaffirmed the BJP’s commitment to stand with women who have faced injustice and reiterated the demand for Akoijam’s resignation.

Prof. Angomcha Bimol Akoijam, who was a professor at JNU’s School of Social Sciences, was dismissed from his position after being found guilty of sexual harassment against female students. He has denied all allegations, which include inquiries about students’ dating histories.